Which specific gene is identified as responsible for regulating pheomelanin production in white tigers?
Answer
The SLC45A2 gene.
The specific genetic mechanism responsible for the white coloration has been identified as residing within the SLC45A2 gene. This gene carries a critical function in the biological pathways responsible for producing various pigments in the fur. Specifically, the dominant version of the allele found in standard orange tigers permits the full production and expression of pheomelanin, which is the pigment responsible for generating red and yellow hues. The recessive mutation in SLC45A2 effectively disrupts or blocks the necessary steps for the full development of this pheomelanin, resulting in the characteristic white background.
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?