The members propose to identify DNA markers closely linked to the RER gene by examining the pedigrees of horses that exhibit this condition, and in doing so, identify the precise chromosome location of this troublesome gene. Achieving our goals would allow the development of specific therapies and treatments to deal with this major disorder affecting Thoroughbred horses, Dr. Mickelson said. In the end, it would enable the identification of positional candidate genes for RER, allow the design of specific tests to diagnose horses likely to be vulnerable to RER, and move the field of equine molecular genetics into a new era. This study is scheduled for completion in late 2004 and is funded by Morris Animal Foundation. AnimalNews is a publication of Morris Animal Foundation, a nonprofit organization that improves the health and well-being of companion animals and wildlife.
Horses are impressive animals.
Humans revere the strength of horses, even using the words horse-power to refer to the strength of a car engine. It stands to reason, then, that horses should be downed only by mighty ailments that are enormous in proportion. Horses and other grazing animals such as sheep, cows and goats become infected with gastrointestinal parasites by coming in contact with parasite eggs or larva in the soil or plants they eat. Common symptoms of worm infections in horses include decreased performance levels, decreased growth rates, weight loss, colic, rough hair coat and eventual debilitation. Infection with worms may also cause life-threatening diseases such as larval cyathostomiasis, which is characterized by severe weight loss, chronic diarrhea and localized swelling.