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Population Genetic Analysis of the Estonian Native Horse Suggests Diverse and Distinct Genetics, Ancient Origin and Contribution from Unique Patrilines.

Abstract: The Estonian Native Horse (ENH) is a medium-size pony found mainly in the western islands of Estonia and is well-adapted to the harsh northern climate and poor pastures. The ancestry of the ENH is debated, including alleged claims about direct descendance from the extinct Tarpan. Here we conducted a detailed analysis of the genetic makeup and relationships of the ENH based on the genotypes of 15 autosomal short tandem repeats (STRs), 18 Y chromosomal single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), mitochondrial D-loop sequence and lateral gait allele in DMRT3. The study encompassed 2890 horses of 61 breeds, including 33 ENHs. We show that the expected and observed genetic diversities of the ENH are among the highest within 52 global breeds, and the highest among 8 related Northern European ponies. The genetically closest breeds to the ENH are the Finn Horse, and the geographically more distant primitive Hucul and Konik. ENH matrilines are diverse and relate to draught and Pontic-Caspian breeds. ENH patrilines relate to draught breeds, and to a unique haplogroup not described before. None of the 33 ENHs carried the "gait" mutation, but the mutation was found in 2 Huculs. The study demonstrates that the ENH is a genetically distinct and diverse breed of ancient origin with no notable pressure of selective breeding.
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Publication Date: PubMed ID: 31434327
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Summary

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This research study presents a comprehensive genetic analysis of the Estonian Native Horse (ENH), revealing it to be a distinct and diverse breed with ancient origins and unique paternal lineage contributions. The findings debunk theories about ENH’s direct descendance from the extinct Tarpan.

Introduction

  • This research focused on the Estonian Native Horse (ENH), a medium-sized pony breed primarily existing in the western islands of Estonia.
  • ENHs are unique in their adaptability to harsh environments and scant pastures, making them a subject of interest for genetic analysis.
  • The study’s aim was to refute or support claims about ENH’s ancestry, including the assertion that they directly descend from the extinct Tarpan.

Methodology

  • In-depth analysis of the genetic makeup and relationships of the ENH was conducted based on genotypes of 15 autosomal short tandem repeats (STRs), 18 Y chromosomal single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), mitochondrial D-loop sequence, and lateral gait allele in DMRT3.
  • The study included a large sample size, encompassing 2890 horses of 61 breeds, out of which 33 were ENHs.

Findings

  • The study revealed that the expected and observed genetic diversities of the ENH are amongst the highest within 52 global breeds and the highest among 8 related Northern European ponies.
  • The closest genetically related breeds to the ENH are the Finn Horse, and the geographically more distant primitive Hucul and Konik breeds.
  • The maternal lineage (matrilines) of the ENH are diverse and relate to draught and Pontic-Caspian breeds.
  • The paternal lineage (patrilines) shows connections to draught breeds and a unique haplogroup not described before.
  • None of the 33 researched ENHs carried the “gait” mutation commonly associated with horse breeds, but this mutation was discovered in 2 Huculs. This indicates that the ENH has not been subject to notable selective breeding pressure.

Conclusion

  • The study concludes that the Estonian Native Horse is a genetically distinct and diverse breed with ancient roots.
  • These findings challenge the direct descendance theory from the extinct Tarpan, underscoring the unique genetic background of the ENH.

Cite This Article

APA
(). Population Genetic Analysis of the Estonian Native Horse Suggests Diverse and Distinct Genetics, Ancient Origin and Contribution from Unique Patrilines. .

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Citations

This article has been cited 13 times.
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