Rabbit Genetic Resources Can Provide Several Animal Models to Explain at the Genetic Level the Diversity of Morphological and Physiological Relevant Traits

The rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) is a unique multipurpose domestic species that has relevant economic impacts in several contexts. This review focused on genetic resources have been mainly bred for the fixation of differentiating features (e.g., exterior traits) already genetically characterized. Several naturally occurring mutants could be useful as animal models investigation biological mechanisms determining their characterizing aspects, with translational potentials. A historical overview origin domesticated populations and differentiation into many breeds summarized. Then, detailed analysis characterize different reported, starting from coat color structure affecting genes (MC1R, ASIP, TYR, MLPH, TYRP1, KIT, LIPH, FGF5), major loci described by classical studies. Mutations these implications pigmentation features, hair growth, related defects. Other gene mutations body size or shapes (HMGA2) other physiological disfunctions (RORB BCO2) are also Additional studies needed to complete characterization some investigate large variability available fancy commercial meat fur lines.