Variability of the melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) gene explains the segregation of the bronze locus in turkey (Meleagris gallopavo)

Poult Sci. 2010 Aug;89(8):1599-602. doi: 10.3382/ps.2010-00726.

Abstract

By sequencing the full coding region of the turkey melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) gene, we have found 4 mutations (c.96G > A, c.364A > T, c.450C > T, and c.887C > T) that are organized in 5 different haplotypes (MC1R*1 to MC1R*5). These haplotypes correlate perfectly with the 3 alleles of the bronze locus (i.e., B, b(+), and b(1)). We suggest that the dominant black phenotype, associated with the B allele, results from the constitutive activation of the receptor, an effect that might be mediated by the missense mutation c.364A > T (p.Ile122Phe). Moreover, we propose that the recessive black-winged bronze phenotype (linked to b(1)) might be produced by 2 deleterious mutations of MC1R (c.96G > A and c.887C > T). This is an unexpected finding because in mammals, MC1R deleterious polymorphisms are usually related with either red or lighter fur colors.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Chromosome Mapping / methods
  • Chromosome Segregation / genetics*
  • DNA / genetics
  • DNA / isolation & purification
  • DNA Primers
  • Feathers / chemistry
  • Genetic Variation*
  • Haplotypes / genetics
  • Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide*
  • Receptor, Melanocortin, Type 1 / genetics*
  • Species Specificity
  • Turkeys / genetics*

Substances

  • DNA Primers
  • Receptor, Melanocortin, Type 1
  • DNA