Preventing fractures in racehorses

The Animal Health Trust is working with the British Racing School (BRS) to identify how to prevent fatal fractures in racehorses. The Trust has already found that genetic factors can influence fracture risk in thoroughbreds but now it wants to develop a DNA test to identify horses at risk. It is comparing the DNA of BRS thoroughbreds with horses who have sustained injuries with the aim of identifying a gene/genes responsible for a horse suffering a fracture. It hopes a DNA test would enable trainers and breeders to select the best suited horses for racing. It would allow horses to have their bone health monitored regularly and training regimes adjusted to reduce their risk of injury.
Source: Veterinary Record - Category: Veterinary Research Tags: News section Source Type: research