Piebald mystery solved: scientists discover how animals develop patches
by Ian Sample Science editor from on (#ZSH6)
Researchers hope mapping how mutated gene produces animals' white patches may lead to medical advances
Scientists have solved what shall henceforth be known as the piebald mystery: by discovering the origins of the broad white patches that can adorn the belly and head fur of cats, dogs and farm animals.
The distinctive patterns were known to be caused by a mutated gene, but how the faulty DNA produced the signature white bellies and other splashes of light on animals' coats was far from clear.
