KIT-PINZ Coat Color Test

AICA Members,

The American International Charolais Association is pleased to announce the availability of a new optional coat-color genetic test for Charolais cattle: the KIT-PINZ coat color test.

The KIT locus underlying color pattern in Charolais—sometimes referred to as the “skunk tail” pattern—appears to be a naturally occurring underlying coat color pattern in some Charolais genetics. This pattern is most commonly identified by a white tail and, in some cases, a white line extending over the tail head and down the tail. Due to the presence of the Charolais dilution gene, this color pattern is not often observed in purebred Charolais cattle and is more commonly expressed in crossbreeding situations.

Importantly, the KIT color pattern has no negative correlation with any other trait in the Charolais breed. It represents an underlying coat color pattern that appears to trace back to original Charolais origins and is not associated with performance, functionality, or production concerns.

Research indicates the KIT locus exhibits codominant inheritance, meaning the phenotype may be expressed in both heterozygous and homozygous animals. The KIT-PINZ mutation itself is incompletely dominant, resulting in varying degrees of white expression among affected progeny. Calves receiving one copy of the KIT-PINZ mutation and only one copy of the dilution gene will express the phenotype, which may include smokey or tan coloration along with some degree of white in the tailhead and tail.

To ensure scientific accuracy and validation, AICA engaged Dr. Jon Beever at the University of Tennessee to assist in identifying the mutation and developing a reliable test for commercial use. Dr. Beever has validated the KIT-PINZ test across multiple bloodlines and sires and has confirmed the ability to identify both heterozygous and homozygous animals.

At this time, samples are submitted directly to the Dr. Beever, and members are highly encouraged to track shipments. The preferred courier for sending samples is UPS, due to challenges with deliverability with the lab address and U.S. Postal Service. Turnaround time from sample receipt to results is comparable to other genotyping providers. Ear tissue samples (TSU) are preferred, while hair and blood cards may require additional processing time.

Until the KIT-PINZ test can be incorporated into AICA’s 100K genomic testing panels, members interested in testing should contact Dr. Beever directly at:

Jon Beever
Professor & Director
UTIA Genomics Center for the Advancement of Agriculture
Phone: 217-841-0813
Email: jbeever@tennessee.edu

The cost of the KIT-PINZ coat color test is $17 per animal.

As with all new technologies, AICA’s objective is to provide members with accurate, validated tools that support informed breeding and marketing decisions. Participation in this testing is entirely optional, and the availability of this test does not alter breed standards, registration requirements, or AICA policy.

If you have questions about the KIT-PINZ test or would like additional information, please contact the AICA staff. We appreciate your continued engagement as we work to responsibly introduce new genetic tools that are grounded in sound science and transparency.

Sincerely,

Brett Spader
Executive Vice President
American International Charolais Association