In equides, Y chromosome specificity has been reported for SRY and ZFY sequences and their usefulness in embryo sexing has been demonstrated as well. However, due to their single copy status extensive cycling or a nested PCR approach must be performed. Repeated sequences would greatly enhance sensitivity, but none has been published so far being specific for the equine Y chromosome.
Expression is restricted to germ cells and their precursors.
Here we report the first sequence data for the equine TSPY locus, its comparison to known group members and demonstration of its potential in equine preimplantation sex diagnosis.