Cytogenetic mapping and STR polymorphism of two candidate genes (DRD2 and HTR1D) for behaviour traits in four canids (short communication)

Abstract

The dopamine D2 receptor (DRD2) and serotonin receptors 1D (HTR1D) are candidate genes for behavioural traits. In the present study, we show chromosomal location and polymorphism of these genes in four species from the family Canidae: dog (CFA), red fox (VVU), arctic fox (ALA) and the Chinese raccoon dog (NPP). Using fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) the DRD2 gene was localized in the following chromosomes: CFA5q12-13, VVU12q21, ALA10q14 and NPP3q14 and the HTR1D gene was mapped to: CFA2q25, VVU2q22, ALA8q25 and NPP10q25. A microsatellite marker (TG) n in intron 3 of the DRD2 gene and (CA) n motif located in a 3′-flanking region of the HTR1D gene were polymorphic in all studied species. The obtained results can be helpful in further studies on effects of polymorphisms of these genes on behaviour traits in canids.