Technical note: a novel method for routine genotyping of horse coat color gene polymorphisms

J Anim Sci. 2008 Jun;86(6):1291-5. doi: 10.2527/jas.2007-0498. Epub 2008 Feb 29.

Abstract

The aim of this note is to describe a reliable, fast, and cost-effective real-time PCR method for routine genotyping of mutations responsible for most coat color variation in horses. The melanocortin-1 receptor, Agouti-signaling peptide, and membrane-associated transporter protein alleles were simultaneously determined using 2 PCR protocols. The assay described here is an alternative method for routine genotyping of a defined number of polymorphisms. Allelic variants are detected in real time and no post-PCR manipulations are required, therefore limiting costs and possible carryover contamination. Data can be copied to a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet for semiautomatic determination of the genotype using a macro freely available at http://www.igijon.com/personales/fgoyache/software_i.htm (last accessed February 26, 2007). The performance of the method is demonstrated on 156 Spanish Purebred horses.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Agouti Signaling Protein / genetics*
  • Alleles
  • Animals
  • DNA Primers
  • DNA Probes
  • Female
  • Genotype
  • Hair Color / genetics*
  • Horses / genetics*
  • Male
  • Membrane Transport Proteins / genetics*
  • Mutation
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction / methods
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction / standards
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction / veterinary
  • Receptor, Melanocortin, Type 1 / genetics*
  • Sensitivity and Specificity

Substances

  • Agouti Signaling Protein
  • DNA Primers
  • DNA Probes
  • Membrane Transport Proteins
  • Receptor, Melanocortin, Type 1