White spotting in domestic cats

Background

White spotting in cats may have several genetic reasons, of which most are typically determined by gene variants within or near a gene called KIT. So far, at least three gene variants associated with different levels of feline white spotting have been identified in connection with KIT, as well as several variants associated with the a gene called PAX3. However, some cats show white spotting without carrying any of the known gene variants already known to be associated with the observed phenotype.

Aim

The aim of this study is to investigate whether additional gene variants can be associated with feline white spotting.

Project description

In this degree project, the student will use a candidate gene approach and direct sequencing to investigate whether there are additional gene variants associated with white spotting in cats aside the ones we already know about in scientific literature. The project will involve some laboratory work.