Background

The classic grey phenotype in the alpaca is a dilution factor that brightens eumelanin-derived base colors to silvergrey and pheomelanin-derived base colors to rosegrey. The mechanisms that determine the color intensity are still unknown and are not identical to the causal classic grey mutation. In addition, the classic grey allele, together with other unknown variants seems to be involved in the development of the “Blue Eyed White” (BEW) phenotype. A mutation in the KIT gene was identified as the causative genetic variant for classic gray. All tested alpacas with the classic gray phenotype were heterozygous for the mutation, as were all animals with the BEW phenotype. No roan, brown, chestnut, black, or black and tan animals carried the mutation. However, the mutation was found in approximately 10% of white or fawn animals. These are called "cryptic grey" because the base color is already pale and therefore the dilution caused by the mutation cannot be seen. So far, no animals homozygous for the classic grey mutation were found, which suggests that the mutation is most likely embryonic lethal in the homozygous state.

Test specific information

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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: Blood EDTA, Blood Heparin, Tissue, Swab. Please contact Dr. Van Haeringen Laboratorium if you wish to submit other material as listed.

Result

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

Inheritance

This genetic factor is inherited in an autosomal, dominant, mode. This means, that the individual can be free of the mutation (homozygote normal), affected (homozygous affected) or carrier (heterozygous affected). Both carriers and affected individuals will show symptoms of the mutation.

Severity of Disease

Factors influencing coat colour and coat types are usually not related to diseases.