Scientists Find Gene Responsible for Color Patterns in Mice

Reference: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/02/110224145555.htm

Summary: Harvard team has found governs color patterns in deer mice, the most widespread mammal in North America. This gene was found in all vertebrates, it may establish color pattern in a wide variety of species. A process that has been poorly understood both the molecular, and the evolutionary level. Agouti had previously been known to affect the type of pigment found in vertebrate fur, feathers, and scales. Little expression of the gene in adults results in the production of dark pigments, while robust Agouti activity generally yields light pigment production.

Critique: I didn't know that there could be like, a pattern in mice color and genes. It was pretty interesting.

Impact: Could help scientist in the future to discover other mice color patterns and genes that we haveint discovered yet.