agouti

The gene encoding Agouti (131 amino acids) has been identified originally as a gene affecting coat colour in mice (Bultman et al, 1992). Kanetsky et al (2002) have called agouti ASIP [agouti signaling protein].

The protein, which is probably secreted, is involved in pheomelanin synthesis in hair follicles (Bultman et al, 1992; Yen et al, 1994). The human homolog of the mouse agouti gene has been cloned by Kwon et al (1994), who reported that the gene is expressed in adipose tissues and testis. The protein is expressed by adipocytes. The human homolog cloned by Wilson et al (1995) has been termed by them ASP [ ... ... ... ... ... Subscribe to continue reading! ... ...