The genetic control of mouse coat color and its applications in genetics teaching

• Published in: Yíchuán Vol. 36; no. 10; p. 1062
• Main Authors: Xing, Wanjin, Morigen, Morigen
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: Chinese
• Published: China 01.10.2014
• Subjects: Alleles; Animals; Hair Color - genetics; Mice; Molecular Biology - education; Motivation; Phenotype
• ISSN: 0253-9772
• DOI: 10.3724/SP.J.1005.2014.1062

Mice are the most commonly used mammalian model. The coat colors of mice are typical Mendelian traits, which have various colors such as white, black, yellow and agouti. The inheritance of mouse coat color is usually stated as an example only in teaching the knowledge of recessive lethal alleles. After searched the related literatures and summarized the molecular mechanisms of mouse coat color inheritance, we further expanded the application of this example into the introduction of the basic concepts of alleles and Mendelian laws, demonstration of the gene structure and function, regulation of gene expression, gene interaction, epigenetic modification, quantitative genetics, as well as evolutionary genetics. By running this example through the whole genetics-teaching lectures, we help the student to form a systemic and developmental view of genetic analysis. At the same time, this teaching approach not only highlights the advancement and integrity of genetics, but also results in a good teaching effect on inspiring the students' interest and attracting students' attention.