Genetic characterization of Japanese native horse breeds by genotyping variants that are associated with phenotypic traits.
Abstract: Concerns have been raised about the loss of genetic diversity in Japanese native horses because of their declining populations. In this study, we investigated the genetic variation of four genes, myostatin (MSTN), ligand-dependent nuclear receptor corepressor like (LCORL), doublesex and mab-3 related transcription factor 3 (DMRT3), and 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 1A (HTR1A), which are associated with horse phenotypic traits, in six Japanese horse breeds (Hokkaido, Kiso, Noma, Misaki, Tokara, and Yonaguni). MSTN, LCORL, DMRT3, and HTR1A showed polymorphisms in the Kiso; Hokkaido and Noma; Hokkaido; and Kiso, Tokara, and Yonaguni breeds, respectively. The Misaki did not show polymorphisms in any of the genes. This study may serve as a basis for developing future breeding strategies focusing on traits in Japanese native horses.
©2023 The Japanese Society of Equine Science.
Publication Date: 2024-01-18 PubMed ID: 38274555PubMed Central: PMC10806362DOI: 10.1294/jes.34.115Google Scholar: Lookup
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Summary
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This research investigates the genetic variation in four genes linked to horse traits in six native Japanese horse breeds, with a view to inform future breeding strategies. Notably, the study found polymorphisms in the respective breeds for each of the genes under investigation, however, the Misaki breed showed no polymorphisms in any of the genes.
Research Context and Objective
- The study aims to assess the genetic diversity of six native Japanese horse breeds due to worries surrounding their dwindling population. Specifically, it investigates genetic variation in four specific, phenotypic trait-related genes, with the objective to inform future breeding strategies.
Genes Investigated
- The research focuses on four genes — myostatin (MSTN), doublesex and mab-3 related transcription factor 3 (DMRT3), 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 1A (HTR1A), and ligand-dependent nuclear receptor corepressor like (LCORL). These genes are associated with the phenotypic traits, or observable physical characteristics, of horses. Studying the prevalence and variation of these genes among different breeds can shed light on their inherited traits.
Results of the Study
- Polymorphisms, or the presence of genetic variation, were noted in these genes among the different horse breeds. Specifically, polymorphisms were observed in MSTN, LCORL, DMRT3, and HTR1A in the Kiso, Hokkaido and Noma, Hokkaido, and Kiso, Tokara, and Yonaguni breeds, respectively.
- The study notably found that the Misaki breed did not exhibit polymorphisms in any of the studied genes. This could indicate less genetic variation in this breed compared to the others.
Implications of the Study
- The findings of this research can serve as a base for the development of future breeding strategies for Japanese native horses. By understanding the genetic diversity within these breeds, more informed decisions can be made about breeding to preserve favorable traits and improve the viability of the breeds.
Cite This Article
APA
Saito I, Nakamura K, Tozaki T, Hano K, Takasu M.
(2024).
Genetic characterization of Japanese native horse breeds by genotyping variants that are associated with phenotypic traits.
J Equine Sci, 34(4), 115-120.
https://doi.org/10.1294/jes.34.115 Publication
Researcher Affiliations
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu 501-1193, Japan.
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu 501-1193, Japan.
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu 501-1193, Japan.
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan.
- Gifu University Institute for Advanced Study, Gifu University, Gifu 501-1193, Japan.
- Gifu University Institute for Advanced Study, Gifu University, Gifu 501-1193, Japan.
- Center for One Medicine Innovative Translational Research (COMIT), Gifu University, Gifu 501-1193, Japan.
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