What is genetic profiling?
The genetic profiling tool (the Genetic Edge) currently assess four traits that are believed to significantly determine a horse’s athletic ability, all of which are thought to be complex, involving both genetic and environmental components. Referring to certain genetic markers, the analysis is able to identify the presence of specific genes in a horse that have statistically significant impact on Graded Stakes performance (our primary and most accomplished panel), distance and surface preferences, and the horse’s full-age height.The science
Whole genome analyses, which means about 52,000 markers (or genes) per horse, have been performed on large samples comprising of (i) hundreds of Graded Stakes winners and placed horses and (ii) hundreds of lower quality race horses. Comparing these samples with the help of statistical techniques, it has been possible to identify genetic differences attributable to variations in athletic variability (Graded Stakes performance), distance preferences, surface preferences, and full-age height of thoroughbred horses. In applying our findings, four marker panels for detecting these genetic variations are used (which are discussed in more detail here). The scientific merit of the panels is solid; the number of genetic samples is double that estimated from genetic power calculations and the quality of the sample is very high with over 200 Gr1 winners, including 15 US Classic winners.What we can achieve
A genetic analysis achieves what an external physiological evaluation cannot; assess vital characteristics of a horse that are invisible to the eye.The Graded Stakes Performance Panel is a valuable complementary tool in our selection services, for example in ensuring that no resources or efforts are spent on horses with no chance of winning Graded Stakes. Applied systematically, the solid statistical integrity of the tool will ensure greater efficiency for Breeders, Buyers and Owners, as it improves the odds of having a competent race horse, provide important information with regards to distance and surface preferences, and aid breeding decisions.
Professor Matthew Binns, a world renowned genetic scientist and a founding member of the Equine Genome Project, has developed the genetic profiling tool (The Genetic Edge) in cooperation with Equine Analysis Systems. With help of the knowledge and expertise derived from other technologies, and the significant data accumulated over the years, Professor Binns have been able to discover genetic patterns that will aid management decisions and improve operational efficiency.
For further information on genetic profling and how it forms a part of our service offering, please contact us directly or visit the dedicated The Genetic Edge website.
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