Worldwide frequency distribution of the ‘Gait keeper’ mutation in the DMRT3 gene.

The research article investigates the worldwide distribution of a genetic mutation known as ‘Gait keeper’ in the DMRT3 gene among various horse breeds. This gene mutation essentially influences the different ways or patterns a horse might move, including the ability for some horses to perform additional unique gaits.

Overview of the Research Article

• The focus of the researchers is on a gene mutation in the DMRT3, often referred to as ‘Gait keeper’. The mutation is known to be responsible for a distinguished trait in horses which manifests as an ability to perform additional unique gaits. At a basic level, gait refers to the pattern of movement of the limbs of animals.
• The study explores the worldwide frequency distribution of this mutation across 141 horse breeds, represented by 4396 horses. In addition, 2749 of these horses were also genotyped for a SNP (Single-nucleotide polymorphism) which is located 32 kb upstream of the DMRT3 mutation. These SNPs help researchers to understand the genetic variations that exist within or between species.

The Role of DMRT3 Mutation in Horse Gaits

• Domestic horses have, over centuries, experienced intense selection based on their pattern of locomotion. A striking impact of such selection is the ability for some horses to perform additional gaits, outside the common walk, trot, and gallop. These additional gaits can include four-beat ambling gaits and pace.
• Gaited horse breeds exist globally, and previous research has shown that the DMRT3 ‘Gait keeper’ mutation has a significant impact on gaitedness in horses. It is commonly found in high frequency in gaited breeds and horses bred for harness racing.

Global Distribution of ‘Gait Keeper’ Mutation

• The research aims to understand the distribution of the DMRT3 mutation worldwide. They tested 141 horse breeds globally and found the presence of the mutation in 68 of those. The frequency of the stop mutation ranged from 1% to 100%
• The study also shows that the mutation is not confined to a particular geographical location but can be found globally. Horse breeds that have a high frequency of the stop mutation (over 50%) were either classified as gaited or are bred for harness racing.