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Scientists have identified the genetic basis that explains why some purebred horses are better equipped to run sprint distances and others over longer distances. Irish scientists, from Trinity College Dublin and UCD, have discovered the inner workings of a known "velocity gene", which directly affects the growth of skeletal muscle and, therefore, the l? ability to race distance.
Thoroughbred horses are well-adjusted athletes, with a high aerobic capacity relative to their skeletal muscle mbad, which can be attributed to centuries of genetic selection for speed and endurance. Non-genetic factors, such as variation in the training schedule, may also influence the evolution of racehorse skills and preferences, but previous work by UCD professor Emmeline Hill has demonstrated that different versions (polymorphisms) of the myostatin gene, a pronounced inhibitor of skeletal muscle growth, almost exclusively accounts for race-based racial distance fitness in racehorses.
This earlier discovery has earned the gene myostatin the nickname "speed gene", with horses with "CC" copies tending to develop into sprinters; those with copies & # 39; CT & # 39; tending to become mid-distance interpreters; and those with "TT" copies tending to be better equipped for long distances.
However, until now, scientists did not know which element (s) of the gene held the secrets to understand race distance preferences.
In the new study, scientists identified the specific noncoding section of the "gene of velocity" which is exclusively responsible for limiting myostatin protein production in thoroughbreds, which affects the development of skeletal muscle and the ability to race. The results have just been published in the leading international journal PLOS ONE.
Richard Porter, badociate professor in biochemistry at Trinity College Dublin, is the lead author of the journal's article. The research was conducted in collaboration with researcher Mary Rooney and Associate Professor Vincent Kelly of Trinity, and Professor Emmeline Hill of the UCD School of Agriculture and Food Science.
Dr. Porter said, "Our data is the first mechanistic evidence of the specific element of the" gene of speed "that acts as a single protagonist in dictating its expression in the thoroughbred. "This element is the key genetic factor for determining distance ability in thoroughbred horses." This knowledge is extremely valuable to purebred breeders and trainers, in what is a multi-billion dollar industry. "
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Material provided by Trinity College Dublin. Note: Content can be changed for style and length.
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