Orange colors have been recorded in cats since Egyptian times. Now we know where it comes from.
For more than a century, the genetic secrets behind the vibrant orange coats of ginger cats and the intricate patterns of tortoiseshells have puzzled scientists and cat enthusiasts alike.Now, two studies have finally identified the genetic key to this mystery, solving a puzzle first theorized in 1912.
In orange areas of a cat's coat, the gene remains persistently active, while in non-orange areas, it is largely switched off.This mutation, while not altering the protein itself, disrupts its location of activity, resulting in the distinctive orange pigmentation.Newsweek contacted authors of both studies via email for comment.Orange cats have been around for millennia. Evidence of ginger cats can be seen in Egyptian tomb art, and some mummified cats appear to have had ginger coats.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Neptune and Uranus have a magnetic mystery — but the case may finally be crackedConor Feehly is a New Zealand-based science writer. He has earned a master's in science communication from the University of Otago, Dunedin. His writing has appeared in Cosmos Magazine, Discover Magazine and ScienceAlert.
Read more »
Pentagon solves 1 UFO mystery but still probing cases of 'large orange orb,' 'large metallic cylinder'Director of Pentagon office probing UFOs showed Congress 3 cases it's resolved, but also discussed 3 — out of nearly two dozen — still under active investigation.
Read more »
N.J. football: Previewing the North 1, Group 5 state tournament semifinalsThe N.J. Section 1, Group 5 matchups: East Orange vs. Ridgewood; Piscataway vs. West Orange
Read more »
Football photos: East Orange at West Orange, Friday, Nov. 15Check out photos from the North Jersey, Section 1, Group 5 Final as East Orange visits West Orange
Read more »
'Cat servant' questions advice on stray catReader points out Cathy Rosenthal's missed opportunity with the animal rescuer who needed guidance transitioning Abu Dhabi cat to Texas environment.
Read more »
Curiosity Cracked Open a Rock on Mars And Found a Big SurpriseThe Best in Science News and Amazing Breakthroughs
Read more »