Director's Message - Summer 2020
Director's Message
As an equine genetics researcher, I am particularly excited to share this special issue of the Horse Report with you. Inside, you will find a roadmap to many of the currently available equine genetic tests, including the AQHA “five-panel” test, and more.
The equine genome sequence was published in 2009, the result of a yearslong collaborative effort by the international equine research community. This resource drastically changed how researchers approach equine genetics and accelerated the rate of discovery. Increased availability and affordability allowed the application of advanced molecular tools to equine diseases and traits. As a result, genetic tests are available in a variety of breeds.
Most available tests are for simple, Mendelian diseases and traits – those caused by a single gene or locus. Complex diseases and traits likely involve more than one gene and may be influenced by environmental effects. The 2018 release of a new equine genome sequence assembly, coupled with cost reductions that make whole-genome sequencing possible for large numbers of horses, are enabling research in these areas.
As an equine geneticist and veterinarian, I am especially interested in applying whole-genome sequencing and advanced diagnostic tools to equine precision medicine. This highly individualized approach will focus on early detection and prevention of disease, taking into account both genetic information and environmental factors. The idea is to target individuals based on their clinical condition as well as their unique body chemistry and genetics.
At CEH, we are fortunate to collaborate with the UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory (VGL), directed by fellow equine genetics researcher Dr. Rebecca Bellone. A leader in the industry, the VGL offers a wide range of genetic tests for horses and other species and works closely with many breed registries. We are grateful for their contributions to this issue.
We hope you enjoy this glimpse into the fascinating world of equine genetics!
Carrie J. Finno, DVM, Ph.D.
CEH Director
UC Davis Equine Genetic Testing Services
The UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory (VGL) is a not-for-profit unit of the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine that provides animal parentage verification, identification, forensic services, genetic diagnostics and genetic research for a variety of species.
The VGL has been a leader in equine genetic testing and research for decades and has a long history of collaborating with UC Davis researchers, as well as researchers from other institutions, to develop state of the art equine genetic tests, many of which are featured in this issue of the Horse Report. The laboratory currently offers diagnostic tests for 52 equine genetic diseases, coat colors, and other traits of interest. The VGL has a very active research and test development program in equine genetics and genomics.
Visit the VGL’s website at https://vgl.ucdavis.edu/ to learn more.