Myosin 10 is involved in murine pigmentation

Abstract

Myosins are molecular motors that are well known for their role in cell movement and contractile functions. Although extensively studied in muscle physiology, little is known about the function of myosins in mammalian skin. As part of the Sanger Institute Mouse Genetic Project, we have identified a role for Myo10 in pigmentation, with a phenotype unlike those of Myo5a or Myo7a. Adult mice homozygous for a disrupted Myo10 allele on a C57BL/6N background displayed a high degree of penetrance for white patches on their abdomen and dorsal surface. Fore- and hind paw syndactyly was also observed in these mice. Tail epidermal wholemounts showed a complete lack of melanocytes in the hair follicles and interfollicular epidermis. Myo10 previously been implicated in human pigmentation. Our current study reveals involvement of Myo10 in murine pigmentation.

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