Unraveling Mink Hair Keratin Genes
July 2024
TLDR Key genes for mink fur have been identified, aiding conservation efforts.
Recent whole-genome sequencing has identified key hair keratin genes in mink, particularly focusing on the major hair protein KRT81, which consists of 519 amino acids with a molecular weight of 56.3 kD and an isoelectric point of 5.5. Phylogenetic analysis comparing mink and human hair keratins has revealed potential combinations for forming mink fur, providing insights into fur biosynthesis mechanisms. This research could aid in the design of transgenic animals to produce mink fur, potentially helping to save critically endangered mink species.
