Scientists Unlock Genetic Secret Behind Ginger Cats' Orange Fur
Scientists from Japan and the U.S. have discovered the genetic reason behind the orange color of ginger cats. The key is a gene called ARHGAP36. In ginger cats, a section of this gene is missing, which leads to increased pigment activity and results in their distinct orange fur.
This gene is located on the X chromosome, which explains why male cats (with only one X chromosome) are more likely to be fully orange, while female cats (with two X chromosomes) often show mixed colors like calico or tortoiseshell.
The research was a joint effort by Kyushu University and Stanford University, funded by a crowdfunding campaignsupported by thousands of cat lovers. Besides coat color, the study could help understand how this gene affects other parts of the body, like the brain and hormone glands, possibly shedding light on certain health conditions.