Locus S (White spotting)
£31.00
The S locus controls white spotting in dogs. Variants in the MITF gene affect how melanocytes develop, leading to patterns ranging from solid colour to Irish spotting, piebald, or extreme white. The SINE insertion tested at this locus is linked to piebald and extreme white patterns, with homozygous dogs showing heavy white and heterozygous dogs often showing lighter white markings.
Locus S (White Spotting)
The S locus determines the amount and distribution of white spotting in dogs.
Variants in the MITF gene influence how melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) develop, leading to different white spotting patterns.
Possible Genotypes & Patterns
● S/S (Solid)
No white markings are present.
● S/si or si/si (Irish Spotting)
White markings typically appear on the chest, feet, legs, neck, or belly.
● S/sp or sp/sp (Piebald)
Larger white areas across the body.
● S/sw or sw/sw (Extreme White)
Extensive or near-complete white coat.
About the Mutation Tested
This test detects a SINE insertion in the MITF gene, which is associated with
piebald (sp) and extreme white (sw) patterns.
– Dogs with two copies of the insertion (sw/sw or sp/sp) typically show large white areas or extreme white.
– Dogs with one copy (S/sw or S/sp) often show smaller white markings (“Flash” pattern).
– The insertion is absent in solid dogs (S/S) and classic Irish spotting (si/si).
Why this test is useful
– Helps determine the type and extent of white spotting a dog may show.
– Identifies whether a dog carries the piebald or extreme white allele.
– Useful for predicting white patterns in puppies.
– Important for breeds where excessive white is linked to hearing issues (e.g., Dalmatians, Bull Terriers, Aussies).
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