Equine clinical genomics: A clinician's primer.
Authors: Brosnahan M M, Brooks S A, Antczak D F
Journal: Equine veterinary journal
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Equine Clinical Genomics The completion of the equine genome sequence in 2006 marked a watershed moment for understanding inherited disease in horses, enabling researchers working through The Horse Genome Project consortium (22 laboratories across 12 countries) to develop increasingly detailed genetic maps and identify disease-causing mutations. By the time of this review, genomic research had identified 11 mutations responsible for 10 clinical syndromes in horses, with commercial testing already available for all but one—a remarkable pace of discovery that has direct application to breeding decisions and clinical management. The authors argue that this genetic toolkit creates genuine potential for transformative advances in internal medicine, sports medicine and reproduction, whilst also acknowledging that realising these benefits depends critically on clinicians understanding how to interpret and appropriately apply genomic findings in practice. For farriers, vets and allied professionals involved in breeding advice or performance assessment, this summary serves as an essential introduction to how genomic testing works and which conditions can now be screened for; equally, it highlights the collaborative responsibility between geneticists and practitioners to ensure horses benefit from these scientific advances rather than them becoming merely another commercial tool divorced from animal welfare considerations.
Read the full abstract on PubMed
Practical Takeaways
- •Genetic testing is now commercially available for most identified equine hereditary diseases, allowing clinicians to inform breeding decisions and identify affected animals
- •Understanding the genetic basis of equine diseases will improve diagnostic capabilities and may lead to new treatment options in internal medicine, sports medicine and reproduction
- •Equine clinicians should familiarize themselves with genomic resources and testing options to provide evidence-based guidance to clients on disease prevention and management
Key Findings
- •The Horse Genome Project consortium of 22 laboratories across 12 countries has developed multiple iterations of linkage, physical and comparative gene maps with increasing detail
- •The domestic horse genome was sequenced in early 2006 and is now publicly available in accessible databases worldwide
- •Researchers have identified 11 mutations causing 10 clinical syndromes in horses, with commercial testing available for all but one disease
- •Genome sequencing enables development of new diagnostic tests and potential novel therapeutics for equine inherited diseases