Trait overview

The SD locus, which is termed the shedding locus, is a mutation on the MC5R gene and is associated with higher levels of shedding. The MC5R gene is expressed in hair follicle glands and helps to produce sebum, which acts as a lubricant, water repellent, and aid in thermoregulation of the skin. This variant disrupts the structure of sebum and leads to increased shedding.

Gene name(s)

MC5R

Inheritance

Multifactorial

More common in the following breeds

All breeds

Citations

Hayward JJ, Castelhano MG, Oliveira KC, Corey E, Balkman C, Baxter TL, Casal ML, Center SA, Fang M, Garrison SJ, Kalla SE, Korniliev P, Kotlikoff MI, Moise NS, Shannon LM, Simpson KW, Sutter NB, Todhunter RJ, Boyko AR. Complex disease and phenotype mapping in the domestic dog. Nat Commun. 2016 Jan 22;7:10460. doi: 10.1038/ncomms10460. PMID: 26795439; PMCID: PMC4735900.