Coat color in cats is determined by genes at several different loci. At one locus on the X chromosome, one allele (X+) encodes black fur, another allele (X0) encodes orange fur. Another autosomal locus determines whether the fur has pigment deposited or not; one allele encodes for white fur (dominant, variable expressivity) and the other allele encodes for color (recessive). A Calico female cat (white, orange and black) mates with a black and white male cat. Using this information answer the following questions.
A. Explain how barr bodies relate to copper and black coloring in female cats. Include a definition of barr bodies and why they are present.
B. Provide a possible explanation for how expression of the gene that allows pigmentation is variably expressed in different individuals.
C. List all possible male and female cat phenotypes and genotypes.
Coat color in cats is determined by genes at several different loci. At one locus on the X chromosome, one allele (X+) encodes black fur, another allele (X0) encodes orange fur. Another autosomal locus determines whether the fur has pigment deposited or not; one allele encodes for white fur (dominant, variable expressivity) and the other allele encodes for color (recessive). A Calico female cat (white, orange and black) mates with a black and white male cat. Using this information answer the following questions.
A. Explain how barr bodies relate to copper and black coloring in female cats. Include a definition of barr bodies and why they are present.
B. Provide a possible explanation for how expression of the gene that allows pigmentation is variably expressed in different individuals.
C. List all possible male and female cat phenotypes and genotypes.
