Research progress of SCF gene involved in skin and fur colour formation in mammals

Hair color, as one of the important animal phenotypes, has always been the focus of research. Stem cell factor（SCF） genes are involved in animal cell development（including hair color formation）. The SCF gene regulates melanocyte-specific microphthalmia transcription factor（MITF） gene mRNA expression at the promoter level, and is involved in pigmentation due to environmental stimuli（mainly UV radiation） both inside and outside the organism in different species. It plays an important role in melanocyte migration and survival, spot（roan） phenotype and certain diseases. The authors reviewed the structural properties, research progress on the mechanism of action in mammalian melanin synthesis and skin and hair color formation of SCF genes in mammals, aiming to provide ideas and insights for further investigation of the molecular mechanism of SCF gene.