18-05-2025
Japan research team says it has solved mystery of calico cats' fur color
Researchers in Japan say they have unlocked a long-standing mystery about the color of calico cats, known for their black, white and orange fur.
The team includes Sasaki Hiroyuki, distinguished professor at the Kyushu University Institute for Advanced Study.
Almost all tri-colored calicos are female, but the gene that determines the fur colors of black and orange has been a mystery since full-fledged studies began more than 60 years ago.
The researchers analyzed and compared the genes of calico cats and other types. They identified a gene called ARHGAP36 on the X chromosome linked to biological sex. They say this is the gene that makes the black and orange colors.
They also say that when this gene mutates, it affects the production of proteins, causing black fur to turn orange. If a cat also has a gene for white fur, it will have patches of black, white and orange.
The researchers, who are all cat lovers, said they took extra care not to hurt their feline subjects by using blood samples collected at animal hospitals.
The team raised over 10 million yen, or about 68,500 dollars, for the project through crowdfunding. The donations doubled the target amount.
Professor Sasaki says he is very happy with the results of the research, and the finding suggests that the newly discovered gene may affect nerve functions. He says he would like to study if different colors and patterns are linked to cats' personalities.
Sasaki adds that he hopes the breakthrough will encourage young people to become researchers.
