An investigation of seven enzymes as possible genetic markers in horse leucocytes.

This research investigates seven specific enzymes present in horse white blood cells to determine their potential use as genetic markers for paternity testing in horses.

Research Overview

• The study was carried out on different horse populations including British crossbred ponies, crossbred horses, Mongolian ponies and Icelandic ponies, a total of 95 horses.
• Seven enzymes were investigated: NP, GOTM, PGM2, alpha FUC, PEP A, ADA, and MPI.
• These enzymes are found in the leukocytes, or white blood cells, which are involved in the immune response, but also carry genetic information.

Detailed Findings

• The results showed that two of the enzymes, alpha FUC and MPI, were polymorphic across all horse populations. This means that these enzymes showed variation at the genetic level across the tested population of horses.
• This polymorphism makes alpha FUC and MPI potential genetic markers for paternity testing in horses. This is because genetic markers are regions of DNA that are likely to vary between individuals and thus can be used to distinguish one individual from another.
• The enzymes PEP A and GOTM were also found to be polymorphic, but only in two specific horse populations. Therefore, they could be used as additional genetic markers within these specific groups.

Significance of the Study

• The use of these enzymes as genetic markers would add to the tools currently available for paternity testing in horses.
• Identifying reliable genetic markers can streamline the process of genetic identification and increase its accuracy, which is especially important in the field of animal breeding where accurate lineage information can significantly influence breeding decisions and the valuation of animals.