Omneity® Pellets
All-In-One Vitamin & Mineral Pellet
Topic:Lineage
Lineage in horses refers to the genetic heritage and ancestry that influence a horse's characteristics, performance, and breeding value. It encompasses the study of pedigrees, genetic markers, and inheritance patterns to understand traits passed from one generation to the next. Lineage analysis is utilized in breeding programs to enhance desirable traits such as speed, endurance, temperament, and conformation. This topic includes investigations into the genetic diversity within horse populations, the impact of selective breeding, and the identification of genetic disorders. This page compiles peer-reviewed research studies and scholarly articles that explore the methodologies, findings, and implications of lineage studies in equine genetics and breeding strategies.
Implications of dominance deviations for reproductive and morphological traits in the genetic management of the Pura Raza Española horse. Dominance is a non-additive genetic effect involving allele interaction at the same locus. In animal breeding, it has often been ignored due to its complexity and the low accuracy of pedigree-based estimates. This study analysed dominance variance components for reproductive traits [age at first foaling (AFF), reproductive efficiency (RE), interval between first and second foaling (I12)] and morphological traits [scapulo-ischial length (SIL), dorsal sternal diameter (DSD), knee circumference (KC)] in Pura Raza Española (PRE) mares. The aim was to assess the magnitude of dominance effects acro...
Phenotypic Definition Influences Genetic Inference and Predictive Ability for Reining Performance in Quarter Horses Using Random Regression Models. Reining performance is influenced by subjectivity and competition structure, challenging genetic evaluation. This study estimated genetic parameters for reining performance in Brazilian Quarter Horses using random regression models (RRM) and evaluated how alternative phenotypic definitions affect genetic inference and predictive ability. A dataset comprising 21,165 longitudinal records from 1603 horses was analyzed, comparing within-group rank (RANK) and Blom-transformed rank (BLOM). Model comparison indicated that cubic RRM provided the best fit for both phenotypes. Heritability estimates wer...
Mitochondrial DNA reveals high maternal diversity within a weak breed structure in native Kazakhstani horses. Understanding the genetic diversity and evolutionary history of domestic horses () is essential for reconstructing their population dynamics and origins. In this study, we analyzed mitochondrial DNA variation (COI and cytb) in six Kazakhstani horse populations representing four native breeds (Kazakh, Kostanay, Adai, and Mugalzhar) to assess genetic diversity, population structure, and evolutionary relationships within a broader phylogenetic framework. High haplotype diversity combined with low nucleotide diversity revealed population expansion and admixture. Population structure analyses revea...
A Breed-Specific SNP Panel With Higher Theoretical Exclusion Power and Practical Equivalence to International Standards for Parentage Testing in Pura Raza Española Horses. Accurate parentage assignment is essential for managing livestock breeding and genetic improvement. This study evaluated a breed-specific SNP panel (375 SNPs) for the Pura Raza Española (PRE) horse, comparing its performance against the traditional STR reference panel (18 microsatellite) and the international ISAG SNP core panel (378 SNPs) across population scenarios differing in levels of inbreeding and kinship. The PRE-specific SNPs were selected from the Axiom EQUIGENE array based on high genotyping reliability (call-rate > 99%), Mendelian error minimization, Hardy-Weinberg equilibr...
Similar locomotor patterns across Quarter Horse disciplines inform lameness assessment. Lineage-based selection is central to the Quarter Horse industry and is often justified by the assumption that morphology determines locomotor function. However, objective evidence linking static conformation to discipline-specific locomotor behaviour under standardised conditions remains limited. Objective: To investigate whether morphological differences among Quarter Horse disciplines are associated with distinct locomotor patterns or whether locomotor function converges across disciplines despite morphological variation. Methods: Cross-sectional. Methods: Barrel racing, reining, and ranch ...
Genetic diversity of horses of the Sargarinsko-Alexeevskaya and Irmen cultures of the Ob-Irtysh region of Western Siberia and their genetic proximity to modern horses of indigenous breeds. Genetic diversity of horses of the Sargarinsko-Alexeevskaya and Irmen cultures of the Ob-Irtysh region of Western Siberia and their genetic proximity to modern horses of indigenous breeds. Генетическое разнообразие лошадей саргаринско-алексеевской и ирменской культур Западной Сибири и их генетическое родство с современными лошадьми аборигенных пород.
Whole Genome Data Uncover the Complex Origins of Polish Konik Horses. Polish Konik is a native horse breed from Poland often regarded as living descendants of the extinct Tarpan, which has been crucial to the breed's conservation status and cultural importance. To evaluate Polish Konik origins, we sequenced 12 whole genomes and compared them with 148 horse genomes, including those of modern breeds, ancient Polish horses, Przewalski horses, and the Tarpan. The ADMIXTURE results showed that Polish Konik is dominated by a single ancestral component, which is also common among ancient Polish samples and several primitive breeds. The PCA places Polish Konik in a comp...
Theileria equi sensu lato genetic diversity and phylogeny: new insights from mitochondrion, apicoplast and nucleus multilocus gene analysis. Equine piroplasmosis is a significant tick-borne disease with a global distribution. Among the two causative agents, Theileria equi has undergone numerous taxonomic reclassifications over time, reflecting advances in our understanding of its biology, molecular characteristics, and phylogenetic relationships. Formerly named Babesia equi, now classified in the Equus group apart from Babesia and Theileria species, its genus name will again certainly change. The genetic diversity also within T. equi lead to the renaming of one lineage as Theileria haneyi. Theileria equi should better now be consid...
Genetic Diversity and Population Structure in Seven Lipizzan Populations Based on Microsatellite Genotyping. Lipizzan horses, bred for over four centuries, represent a unique genetic, cultural and historic resource. This study assessed genetic diversity and population structure across seven European Lipizzan populations, with emphasis on the Bosnia and Herzegovina population. A total of 547 Lipizzan horses were genotyped using 12 microsatellite markers. The parameters of genetic variability, admixture level and migration rate were calculated. The mean number of alleles, effective number of alleles and Shannon's information index were 5.78, 3.24 and 1.31, respectively. The average fixation indices wer...
Telomere-to-telomere Genome Assembly of Equus kiang (Tibetan wild donkey). The Tibetan wild donkey (Equus kiang) is an endemic equid species inhabiting the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, exhibiting remarkable chromosomal diversity within the Equus genus. Here we present a chromosome-level, telomere-to-telomere genome assembly for E. kiang generated using Illumina short reads, PacBio HiFi long reads, and Hi-C sequencing data. The final assembly spans 4.02 Gb and comprises 27 pseudochromosomes. Specifically, 8 chromosomes are gapless, 8 chromosomes have one gap, 7 chromosomes have 2-4 gaps, and the remaining 4 chromosomes have five or more gaps. Benchmarking Universal Single...
Genetic diversity in the Criollo Argentino horse from SNP array data. The Criollo Argentino horse is a national symbol and a heritage breed that represents both cultural identity and a key component of traditional production systems in Argentina. This study aimed to assess the genetic differentiation of the Criollo Argentino relative to other horse breeds and to infer potential factors shaping its diversity through the genomic analysis of 24 representative animals. Samples were genotyped using a medium-density SNP array containing 65,157 markers, and genetic diversity analyses were conducted across autosomal SNP sets filtered under different criteria. Contempora...
Pedigree Investigation of Polish Sport Horses in Show Jumping: Insights for Global Breeding. The aim of this study was to characterise the pedigree and genetic structure of Polish Sport Horses competing in Grand Prix show jumping events and to assess the implications for international sport horse breeding. Pedigrees of 513 horses were analysed, encompassing a total of 18,836 individuals over a maximum of 16 generations. The completeness and depth of the pedigrees allowed for a reliable estimation of inbreeding coefficients and genetic diversity. The mean inbreeding coefficient was low (0.645%), yet 82% of the horses exhibited some degree of inbreeding. The greatest loss of genetic var...
Population Structure and Genetic Diversity Among Lipizzan Mare Families in Hungary Based on Microsatellite Genotyping. The conservation of genetic diversity in historically structured horse breeds requires fi-ne-scale population genetic evaluation beyond conventional pedigree-based approaches. The present study assessed genetic diversity, population structure, and mare family differentiation in a Lipizzan horse population using 16 ISAG/FAO-recommended microsatellite markers. A total of 172 mares representing 29 mare families were genotyped. All loci were polymorphic, with a mean number of alleles per locus of 6.69 and a mean effective number of alleles of 3.56. The average polymorphism information content (PIC...
Genetic background and phenotypic features of the endangered Miyako horse. The Miyako horse is one of the eight Japanese native horse breeds and is scarce in terms of population size. Japanese native horses are believed to be descended from Mongolian horses and represent a precious lineage that has preserved its traits for over a thousand years in Japan. Genetic analysis of the endangered Miyako horse is useful for preserving its original phenotypic traits. This study analysed the genetic variation in trait-related genes for coat colour (), body composition (), gait (), and temperament () in 46 extant Miyako horses. In addition, because numerous Miyako horses have ve...
Screening of Y-chromosomal STR loci and development of a multiplex PCR system for paternal lineage identification in horses. With growing demand for pedigree verification and breed management in horses (Equus caballus), reliable paternal lineage tools are essential. Y-chromosomal STRs (Y-STRs) have advantages over autosomal STRs due to paternal inheritance and lack of recombination. However, few validated loci and no standardised efficient genotyping systems limit their use. Current methods often require multiple reactions, increasing cost and labour. Thus, identifying informative Y-STR loci and developing a multiplex PCR system for cost-effective paternal lineage analysis is urgently needed. Objective: To identify ...
Fully Phased Telomere-to-Telomere Assemblies for Thoroughbred Horse and Donkey Haplotypes derived from a Mule Illuminate the Peculiar Evolution of Equid Centromeres. We present telomere-to-telomere genome assemblies of a Thoroughbred horse and a donkey derived from their mule offspring. Now adopted and annotated by NCBI as reference genomes, these assemblies resolve previously inaccessible regions, including satellite arrays, duplications, and telomeres. Equids are known to exhibit an uncoupling between satellite DNA and centromeric function. The completeness of these assemblies enabled annotation of both satellite-based and satellite-free centromeres, as well as non-centromeric satellite loci, revealing notable centromeric plasticity. They also allowed de...
Sequencing and Analysis of mtDNA Genomes from the Teeth of Early Medieval Horses in Poland. This study presents the sequencing and analysis of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) genomes from nine early medieval horse remains excavated across archaeological sites in Silesia region in present day Poland. Methods: Using aDNA extraction protocols optimized for short fragments, combined with target enrichment and high-throughput sequencing, we reconstructed partial mtDNA sequences for seven of the specimens. Results: The authenticity of the aDNA was confirmed through damage pattern analysis. Phylogenetic reconstruction revealed that the specimens belonged to six distinct mtDNA lineages (B, D, E, G...
Genetic Characterization of the Arabian Horse Population in Tunisia Using Microsatellites. The genetic diversity and population structure of Tunisian Arabian horses were assessed using highly polymorphic microsatellite markers, which are critical for conservation and breeding programs. Despite the cultural and economic importance of Arabian horses in Tunisia, molecular data supporting their management remain limited. In this study, DNA from 130 horses was genotyped with 17 ISAG-FAO-recommended microsatellites to evaluate diversity within Eastern and Western Arabian lineages and their relationship to Thoroughbreds. Eastern Arabians showed an average of 5.176 alleles per locus, observ...
Pedigree tracing to determine the origin of the golden coat phenotype within the golden American saddlebred horse. Due to the incorporation of the Golden American Saddlebred Horse Association (GASHA) into the American Saddlebred Horse and Breeders Association (ASHBA), breeding for coat color has become more challenging for horse breeders. However, with this merger, pedigree tracing can be of value in pinpointing foundation bloodlines within the GASHA that influence production of the golden coat phenotype. Objective: The study objective was to document the historical origins of the GASHA through pedigree tracing to determine the influence of dilution alleles that produce the golden coat phenotype. Methods: ...
Exploring the Genetic Link Between Coat Colour and Morphological Traits: The Case of Peruano de Paso Horse. The Peruano de Paso is a horse breed renowned for its smooth gait, traditionally selected based on breeders' empirical knowledge. Recently, the frequency of chestnut horses, a recessive trait, has increased substantially within the official studbook. This study evaluated whether preference for chestnut coat colour has influenced morphological traits and genetic diversity within the breed. A total of 8376 records of seven morphological traits, collected by the Peruano de Paso Breeders Association over eight years, were analysed, along with a pedigree including 41,357 individuals. Morphological ...
Population Structure and Genetic Diversity Among Shagya Arabian Horse Genealogical Lineages in Bulgaria Based on Microsatellite Genotyping. The Shagya Arabian horse breed was created to address the need of Imperial Hussars (Hungarian light horsemen) for a horse with the intelligence, essential characteristics, and endurance of the Arabian breed, but also of a bigger size and having a better weight-carrying capacity and jumping ability. The present study aimed to explore the genetic variability and population structure of the uninvestigated Shagya Arabian horse population in Bulgaria based on genotyping at 15 equine microsatellite markers. A total of 140 horses belonging to six genealogical lines (Dahoman, Gazal, Ibrahim, Kuhailan ...
Comparative Study of Reprogramming Efficiency and Regulatory Mechanisms of Placental- and Fibroblast-Derived Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs) in Mules. As an interspecies hybrid inheriting genetic material from horse and donkey lineages, mules provide a unique model for studying allele-specific regulatory dynamics. Here, we isolated adult fibroblasts (AFs) and placental fibroblasts (PFs) from mule tissues and reprogrammed them into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Intriguingly, placental fibroblast-derived iPSCs (mpiPSCs) exhibited reduced reprogramming efficiency compared to adult fibroblast-derived iPSCs (maiPSCs). Through allele-specific expression (ASE) analysis, we systematically dissected transcriptional biases in parental cell t...
The genomic history of Iberian horses since the last Ice Age. Horses have inhabited Iberia (present-day Spain and Portugal) since the Middle Pleistocene, shaping a complex history in the region. Iberia has been proposed as a potential domestication centre and is renowned for producing world-class bloodlines. Here, we generate genome-wide sequence data from 87 ancient horse specimens (median coverage = 0.97X) from Iberia and the broader Mediterranean to reconstruct their genetic history over the last ~26,000 years. Here, we report that wild horses of the divergent IBE lineage inhabited Iberia from the Late Pleistocene, while domesticated DOM2 horses, nati...
CENP-A and centromere evolution in equids. While the centromeric function is conserved and epigenetically specified by CENP-A, centromeric DNA, typically composed of satellite repeats, is highly divergent and rapidly evolving. In the species of the genus Equus (horses, asses and zebras), also known as equids, the numerous centromeres devoid of satellite repeats enabled us to carry out molecular analysis of centromeric chromatin establishing a unique model system for mammalian centromere biology. In this review, after a brief description of the rapid evolution of equids, we outline one of our most relevant initial discoveries: the posit...
Genetic relationship between Neck and Limb defects in Pura Raza Española Horses. Neck and limb conformational defects can impair functionality and performance in Pura Raza Española (PRE) horses. However, their potential genetic relationship has not been previously explored. Objective: To estimate the genetic correlations between two types of neck defects (Cresty neck -CN-, Ewe neck -EN-) and twelve conformational limb defects: Forelimb (Buck knee -BUK-, Calf knee -CK-, Bench knee -BEK-, Knock knee -KK-, Splay-footed forelimb -SFF-, Pigeon-toed forelimb -PTF-), rear limb (Closed hock -CH-, Open hock -OH-, Convergent hock -CVH-, Divergent hock -DVH-, Splay-footed rear limb ...
Analysis of Population Structure in Hungarian Coldblood Horses Based on Pedigree Information. The Hungarian Coldblood horse was developed in the 1920s by crossing local mares with draft horses imported from Belgium and France, and was approved as an official horse breed in 1954. The aim of the study was to analyze the quality of the pedigree, generation interval, gene origin, and inbreeding. The pedigree information was received from the Hungarian Coldblood Horse Breeding Association. The studbook data of the registered animals up to 2023 were evaluated. Two reference populations were chosen: horses having offspring in 1989 and 2023. The final database contained 21,699 horses. Pedigree...
Genetic influence of a STAU2 frameshift mutation and RELN regulatory elements on performance in Icelandic horses. Selection for performance in horse breeding benefits from precise genetic insights at a molecular level, but knowledge remains limited. This study used whole-genome sequences of 39 elite and non-elite Icelandic horses to identify candidate causal variants linked to previously identified haplotypes in the STAU2 and RELN genes affecting pace and other gaits. A frameshift variant in linkage disequilibrium with the previously identified haplotypes in the STAU2 gene (r2 = 0.85) was identified within a predicted STAU2 transcript. This variant alters the amino acid sequence and introduces a prema...
A Systematic Literature Review of Mitochondrial DNA Analysis for Horse Genetic Diversity. This Systematic Literature Review (SLR) consolidates current research on mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) analysis in horses, focusing on genetic variation, maternal lineage tracing, and haplogroup identification. The article selection process screened 1380 articles, with 76 fulfilling the inclusion criteria. Data extraction covered sampling techniques, studied mtDNA regions, sequencing methods, and haplogroup identification. Following the methodology of the PRISMA guidelines, this review encompasses studies published since 2012, obtained from Scopus, PubMed, Research4Life, Web of Science, and Scienc...
Identification of Genetic Relationships and Group Structure Analysis of Yanqi Horses. The Yanqi horse is a distinguished local breed in China, known for its robust physique and strong adaptability. However, due to insufficient breeding populations and a loosely structured breeding system, the number of Yanqi horses has been declining annually. To protect its genetic resources and develop scientific breeding strategies, this study aimed to analyze the genetic diversity, parentage relationships, and genetic structure of the Yanqi horse conservation population using microsatellite markers. A total of 117 Yanqi horses were selected for genotyping analysis using 16 microsatellite ...
Single-Step Genome-Wide Association Study of Factors for Evaluated and Linearly Scored Traits in Swedish Warmblood Horses. Swedish Warmblood horses (SWB) are bred for show jumping and/or dressage with young horse test scores as indicator traits. This study aimed to investigate possible candidate genes and regions of importance for evaluated and linearly scored young horse test traits. A single-step genome-wide association study (ssGWAS) was done using the BLUPF90 suite of programs for factors scores from factor analysis of traits assessed at young horse tests together with height at withers. The ssGWAS included 20,814 SWB with factors scores for four factors for evaluated traits. A total of 6436 of these horses al...
