Scientists unlock the hidden gene behind ginger cats' orange fur and what it means for their future

Time of India

19-05-2025

Source: BBC
Ginger cats are an enduring fascination of the public, from Garfield to Puss in Boots to the much sought-after Toulouse from The Aristocats. Their orange coats and unique personalities have turned them into icons of popular culture. Scientists have now at last discovered a mystery that has lain hidden for decades regarding what makes these cats orange. Recent research by researchers in the United States and Japan has made major contributions to understanding the genetic processes that produce the distinctive fur color of ginger cats, specifically males.
The discovery of the genetics of ginger cats is not only an intellectual victory—it's a tribute to the way science and enthusiasm for animals can merge. As scientists explore the genetics of domestic cats, it not only has the potential to reveal more about the health of our beloved pets but also to help us understand better the interplay between genetics, health, and behaviour.
Scientists find the gene behind ginger cats' orange colour
For decades, it was established that genes were responsible for ginger cats' orange coloration, but just what aspect of their genome was involved remained a mystery. Now, two teams of scientists—one at Kyushu University in Japan and the other at Stanford University in the United States—have simultaneously published their findings. Their research reveals a significant discovery: ginger cats are missing a specific section of their genetic code, which causes their cells to produce lighter pigments in their skin, eyes, and fur. This genetic anomaly impacts the melanocytes, the cells responsible for pigmentation.
The secret to this finding is the ARHGAP36 gene, which is most active in the cells that influence skin, fur, and eye pigmentation. In their study, the researchers determined that ginger cats lack a portion in the DNA sequence of this gene. Under normal circumstances, this gene would inhibit activity, but without this DNA segment, the gene itself stays active, stimulating the production of light-colored pigments.
In their study, the scientists compared the DNA of cats with ginger fur to those without. This comparison revealed that the missing DNA segment within the ARHGAP36 gene plays a crucial role in producing the distinctive orange color of ginger cats. This finding not only explains the phenomenon of ginger fur, but it also represents a major breakthrough in understanding feline genetics.
Why are most ginger cat's male
Yet another age-old observation regarding ginger cats is that they are predominantly males. The new research identifies a genetic explanation for this fact. The gene ARHGAP36, which is responsible for the ginger coat color, is on the X chromosome. Male cats, like all mammals, have one Y and one X chromosome, whereas females have two X chromosomes. For males, only one missing piece of DNA on the X chromosome is sufficient to create a complete orange coat. Female cats need to have the genetic mutation on both their X chromosomes in order to express the same extent of pigmentation and therefore fully orange female cats are much less common.
Even more impressive about this finding is its beginnings. The lead researcher was Professor Hiroyuki Sasaki, a retired geneticist and dogged feline enthusiast. Even after retiring from his university position, Sasaki was determined to unlock the genetic code of the ginger cats. Funded by thousands of like-minded cat fans across the globe, Sasaki attracted more than 10 million yen (£55,109) through crowdfunding to carry out the research. The project touched the hearts of cat enthusiasts, some who even contributed their pocket money to help with the project.
Understanding the ARHGAP36 gene and its connection to ginger cats and health
Whereas the breakthrough centers on pigmentation, the ARHGAP36 gene also has an important function in other areas of the body, such as the brain and hormone glands. This leaves open the potential that the genetic mutation leading to ginger coloring might have implications for overall feline behavior and well-being. While there is no scientific research yet to connect coat color with personality, some scientists, such as Sasaki, are fascinated by the possibility of a link and intend to explore further.
Besides its applicability to cats, the ARHGAP36 gene has also been associated with skin cancer and baldness in humans. This is a testament to the possibility of the study having applications to human health as well.
The identification of the genetic basis of ginger cats' coat color is a major breakthrough in genetics. It not only answers a decades-old mystery but also creates new opportunities for researching the health and temperament of cats. The research will likely lead to more, and possibly feline- and human-beneficial, studies.
As genetic research in animals keeps reaching new heights, researchers could also discover more surprises regarding the contribution of individual genes to physical features and health. Thanks to the cooperation of a committed worldwide network of cat enthusiasts, these advances might also lead to improved disease understanding and treatment in cats.
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