The SLC45A2 gene mutation primarily blocks the full development of which pigment in white tigers?
Answer
Pheomelanin, the pigment responsible for red and yellow hues.
The effect of the recessive mutation in the SLC45A2 gene is highly specific regarding pigment synthesis. This gene plays its role in regulating pheomelanin production. Pheomelanin is the specific pigment responsible for imparting red and yellow coloration into the fur, which forms the base orange color of a typical Bengal tiger. When the recessive mutation is present in two copies, it prevents the complete development or expression of this pheomelanin. Consequently, the only pigment that fully manifests against the coat is eumelanin, the dark pigment responsible for creating the black stripes, leading to the stark white and black appearance.
Related Questions
What classification describes white tigers relative to Panthera tigris tigris?What type of genetic trait governs the striking lack of orange pigmentation in white tigers?Which specific gene is identified as responsible for regulating pheomelanin production in white tigers?The SLC45A2 gene mutation primarily blocks the full development of which pigment in white tigers?How does natural selection affect the survival of the white coat trait in wild habitats?From which historical region did almost all reports of wild white tigers originate?What process primarily caused the frequency of the white coat gene to increase beyond its natural equilibrium?What immediate consequence resulted from breeders intensely seeking the rare recessive white coat gene?Health defects like strabismus in captive white tigers are caused by what underlying issue?Which specific health ailment is listed among the documented defects arising from intensive inbreeding in white tigers?