TLDR Genes like MC1R, TYR, MITF, ASIP, and KIT determine horse and donkey coat colors and affect breeding and health.
This review discusses the genetic basis of coat color variation in equids, focusing on the roles of melanin pigments and key candidate genes such as MC1R, TYR, MITF, ASIP, and KIT. Advances in genomic technologies have clarified how these genes influence the balance between eumelanin and pheomelanin, affecting coat color phenotypes in horses and donkeys. The review also examines the implications of coat color in selective breeding and its association with specific equine diseases, providing insights for breeding strategies that improve both the aesthetic and health aspects of equine species.
21 citations
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May 2022 in “Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology” Hair growth and health are influenced by factors like age, environment, and nutrition, and are controlled by various molecular pathways. Red light can promote hair growth, and understanding these processes can help treat hair-related diseases.
42 citations
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February 2021 in “Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy” Hair follicle regeneration possible, more research needed.
260 citations
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January 2020 in “Nature” Stress can cause hair to turn gray by depleting stem cells.
38 citations
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June 2019 in “International Journal of Molecular Sciences” Tiny particles called extracellular vesicles could help with skin healing and hair growth, but more research is needed.
41 citations
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December 2018 in “Experimental Dermatology” Understanding how melanocyte stem cells work could lead to new treatments for hair graying and skin pigmentation disorders.
73 citations
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December 2015 in “Nature Genetics” Mutations in TBX3 cause horses to have more even hair color instead of Dun camouflage.
