Researchers at the University of Georgia compared DNA from more than 3,000 dogs, wolves and coyotes. They found that ear length is linked to differences near a gene called MSRB3. These genetic differences help explain why some dogs have pointy ears while others have droopy ears.
The study used only drop-eared dogs and showed that a combination of alleles at one spot in the genome helps decide ear type. On top of that combination, an extra allele appears to make ears short or long. The project began because an undergraduate researcher owned a cocker spaniel. The authors say the results could help future disease mapping and breeding tests to reduce harmful variants.
Difficult words
- researcher — Person who studies or does scientific workResearchers
- compare — Look at things to find how they differcompared
- gene — Part of DNA that gives biological instructions
- allele — One version of a gene at one locationalleles
- genome — All the genetic material of an organism
- mapping — Process of finding where genes are on genome
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Have you seen dogs with pointy or droopy ears? Describe one.
- Do you think breeders should use tests to reduce harmful variants? Why or why not?
- Would you be interested in learning how genes change animal appearance? Why?
Related articles
Most US drug trials do not mirror racial and ethnic diversity
A study of pivotal trials used to approve new drugs found only a small share reflect the United States racial and ethnic makeup. The review shows underrepresentation of Black and Hispanic people and urges more diversity earlier in development.
Alternative splicing linked to mammal lifespan
A study in Nature Communications compared alternative splicing across 26 mammal species (lifespans 2.2–37 years) and found splicing patterns better predict maximum lifespan than gene activity; the brain shows many lifespan-linked events controlled by RNA-binding proteins.
