'Man's best friend' shares similar 'albino' gene

A genetic mutation in Doberman pinschers that causes albinism in the breed has been found by researchers, a discovery that has eluded veterinarians and breeders worldwide up until now. "What we found was a gene mutation that results in a missing protein necessary for cells to be pigmented," said a researcher. "Some defects in this same gene cause a condition called oculocutaneous albinism in humans." This type of albinism has certain characteristics that are evident in both humans and dogs.