An experiment was conducted to determine the effects of temperature on gene expression in Himalayan rabbits. After applying an ice pack to the backs of several rabbits, it was discovered that the pigmentation (color) gene in rabbit fur was active at temperatures below 25°C but inactive at temperatures above 25°C .
This experiment suggests that the pigmentation gene in Himalayan rabbits is sensitive to temperature, with activation occurring at temperatures below 25°C and inactivation at temperatures above 25°C.
The Himalayan rabbit is known for its distinctive fur color pattern, which is characterized by a pale body and darker points on the ears, nose, paws, and tail. This pattern is the result of a specific pigmentation gene that regulates the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for fur color.
At temperatures below 25°C, the experiment found that the pigment gene was active, meaning that it was transcribing and translating the genetic information to produce melanin. As a result, the rabbits displayed their characteristic dark points.
However, at temperatures above 25°C, the pigment gene was found to be inactive. This indicates that the gene was not transcribing and translating the genetic information, leading to a lack of melanin production. Consequently, the rabbits had a lighter or more uniform coloration, without the distinct dark points.
This temperature sensitivity of gene expression in the rabbits' pigmentation gene suggests that temperature plays a significant role in determining the fur color pattern in Himalayan rabbits. It implies that changes in temperature can cause the gene to switch on or off, resulting in variations in pigmentation.
Further research would be necessary to understand the underlying mechanisms and genetic factors involved in this temperature-dependent gene regulation in Himalayan rabbits.