Background

Several theories about the genetics of coat colour have been described in the past decades. Recent knowledge about genetic factors has led to new developments, via which more than 10 coat colour factors have been described in several species. Coat colour is influenced by many hereditary factors. One of the basic factors distinguishes between Black and Red.

In contrast with the main rule that black is dominant over red, several other coat colour factors exist which e.g. dilute the pigment in hairs. This results in a wide variety of colour variants, which are complicated to identify without DNA-tests. Across the different animal species, dozens of genetic factors influencing coat colour have been identified.

Test specific information

In contrast with the usual inheritance of Black and Red, a specific phenomenon in cattle is know in which cattle change from Red to Black around 12 months of age. This effect is knows as the Telstar-factor.

Age

Most coat colours and coat types are usually visible directly after birth.

Turnaround time

The Turnaround Time (TAT) depends on various factors, such as the shipment time of your sample to the test location, the test method(s) and whether the tests are performed completely or partially by a Partner Lab or Patent owner.

The TAT of tests performed at our facilities is normally 10 working days after receipt of the sample at the testing laboratory (VHL, VHP or Certagen). For tests performed by a Partner Laboratory (so-called "partner lab test") or patent owner, the TAT is at least 20 working days after receipt of your sample. Because the shipment time to our Partner Labs or patent owner may vary due to factors we cannot influence, the mentioned 20 working days are therefore an estimate.

PLEASE NOTE
Sometimes it is necessary to re-run your sample. We call this a retest. In that case, the TAT will of course be extended.

Location of disease or trait

Genetic factors influencing coat colours and coat types are usually visible on the outside of an individual. Several factors may be hidden by the external variation.

Breed dependence

For this test samples from all breeds are accepted.

Sample type

For this DNA test we accept the following materials: Hair, Semen, Blood EDTA, Blood Heparin, Tissue. Please contact Dr. Van Haeringen Laboratorium if you wish to submit other material as listed.

Result

Coat colours are based on many genetic factors. For each factor, a separate test result will be returned.

Inheritance

Various genetic factors influencing coat colour are inherited in a dominant or recessive mode. Coat colours are influenced by a large number of genetic factors.

Severity of Disease

Genetic characteristics are not a disease.