New Study of DNA in Horses

From Cornell:

We are researchers looking at the genetics of body size in the domestic horse. Horses come in a range of sizes, shapes, and temperaments. This is mostly a result of selective breeding—when traits like body size and conformation are selected for, so are changes in genes, called alleles, that affect these traits.

To participate in our study we need:

• 35 specific body measurements
• A tail hair sample (to collect DNA)
• A 3-generation pedigree (if available)
• A profile photo of your horse

All information is kept strictly confidential.

Our research could ultimately lead to the discovery of genes fundamental to growth processes and could improve the quality of life for both horses and all mammals, including humans.

For more information, please contact the Brooks and Sutter Labs at (607) 254-8217 at equinegenetics@cornell.edu, or (607) 253-3592, sutterlab@cornell.edu

We hope to hear from you!

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Our study is looking for certain genes (alleles) that may contribute to body size in horses. We are collecting body measurements and tail hair samples from horses of all different breeds, shapes, and sizes.

After enough samples are collected (we are aiming for 1,000 horses!), we hope to be able to take any given set of measurements and, from the unique combination of values that each horse gives, be able to identify exactly what breed the horse is from.

Once we have enough samples, we will take the DNA from the tail hair bulbs and "scan" horses to see if we can find differences in their DNA (called gene markers) that could be linked to their differences in body size.

With regards to the actual measurements, we take 35 body measurements, ranging from ear length to the circumference of the hind cannon. We record all measurements in inches.