Researchers in Ireland have identified specific genes in Thoroughbreds that are linked to temperament and the horse's ability to cope in a racetrack training environment. Identifying at-risk animals and proactively reducing their stress load can have positive effects on both animal welfare and economic impacts, while knowing which horses are most susceptible to stress can also impact rider and handler safety.
The research team, composed of scientists from the University College Dublin and Plusvital employees, noted that successful racehorses are able to mentally and physically handle a rigorous training regimen. They are able to undergo training more consistently than their more-delicate counterparts, which may need time off to mentally mature and handle a stringent schedule.
Successful racehorses are also tractable, the researchers said. Horses with temperament issues are often retired from racing early.
The scientists report that not all horses in race training handle the stress of their environment in the same manner. Some horses develop an “active coping style,” which makes the horse behave in a hyperactive manner: they're easily distracted and impulsive, and they have trouble concentrating. This coping style can negatively affect body condition and training response, as well as put the horse at increased risk of disease.
The researchers performed a four-year study that focused on 100 yearlings and their achievement of milestones during early training; it also involved studying cortisol levels at these training stages.
One of the key research findings was that experienced handlers didn't perceive the stress response in yearlings that elevated their cortisol levels. This indicates that some horses are stressed, but don't act out; this could have long-term effects on the horse's wellbeing if the stress is not managed appropriately.
For the study, the researchers compared the genetic profiles of yearlings that could cope with early training to the horses that were more anxious throughout training. They then used genetic data from two different brain tissues that regulate fear and behavior modification to help determine which genes were more likely to affect the horse's ability to cope.
The genes that were highlighted also affect other species, often in the form of suicide, alcohol and cocaine addiction, stress-induced anxiety and depression, neuroinflammatory disease and other behaviors.
The necdin (NDN) gene was identified as the most important in the Thoroughbred response. In humans, this gene is associated with paranoia; in cattle it's affiliated with temperament.
The ability to use genetic screening tools to determine which horses may need additional support to maintain their mental soundness will raise the level of equine welfare of racehorses, the scientists said.
They noted that identification of these genes may allow for improved breeding and management to identify horses that may be better suited for training and racing.
Read more at HorseTalk.
The post Research: Specific Genes Culpable For Thoroughbreds’ Coping Ability appeared first on Horse Racing News | Paulick Report.
