Whole Genome Sequencing Analysis of Alpaca Suggests TRPV3 as a Candidate Gene for the Suri Phenotype

The study used whole genome sequencing (WGS) on 18 samples, including suri and huacaya alpacas, as well as wild vicugnas and guanacos, to identify genetic variants responsible for the suri phenotype. Researchers discovered a premature termination codon (PTC) in the TRPV3 gene in all suri samples, which likely disrupts the gene's normal function and leads to the suri's distinctive long, silky hair. The findings suggest that the suri phenotype is autosomal dominant and may be linked to reduced fitness, potentially impairing thermal adaptation and cold tolerance. This research provides insights into the genetic basis of hair structure in alpacas and could inform breeding programs.