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Gray B, Lubbock K, Love C, Ryder E, Hudson S, Scarth J. Analytical advances in horseracing medication and doping control from 2018 to 2023. Drug Test Anal 2024. [PMID: 39010718 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
The analytical approaches taken by laboratories to implement robust and efficient regulation of horseracing medication and doping control are complex and constantly evolving. Each laboratory's approach will be dictated by differences in regulatory, economic and scientific drivers specific to their local environment. However, in general, laboratories will all be undertaking developments and improvements to their screening strategies in order to meet new and emerging threats as well as provide improved service to their customers. In this paper, the published analytical advances in horseracing medication and doping control since the 22nd International Conference of Racing Analysts and Veterinarians will be reviewed. Due to the unprecedented impact of COVID-19 on the worldwide economy, the normal 2-year period of this review was extended to over 5 years. As such, there was considerable ground to cover, resulting in an increase in the number of relevant publications included from 107 to 307. Major trends in publications will be summarised and possible future directions highlighted. This will cover developments in the detection of 'small' and 'large' molecule drugs, sample preparation procedures and the use of alternative matrices, instrumental advances/applications, drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics, the detection and prevalence of 'endogenous' compounds and biomarker and OMICs approaches. Particular emphasis will be given to research into the potential threat of gene doping, which is a significant area of new and continued research for many laboratories. Furthermore, developments in analytical instrumentation relevant to equine medication and doping control will be discussed.
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2
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Furukawa R, Tozaki T, Kikuchi M, Ishige T, Takahashi Y, Fukui E, Kakoi H. A method for detecting gene doping in horse sports without DNA extraction. Drug Test Anal 2024. [PMID: 38853330 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Gene doping is prohibited in horse sports and can involve the administration of exogenous genes, called transgenes, to postnatal animals. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) methods have been developed to detect gene doping; however, these generally require DNA extraction from the plasma prior to qPCR. In this study, we developed two methods, direct droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) and nested ddPCR, to detect the equine erythropoietin (EPO) transgene without DNA extraction. Direct ddPCR used pretreated plasma and PCR to detect the EPO transgene spiked at 10 copies/μL. Nested ddPCR utilised pre-amplification using nontreated plasma, purification of PCR products and PCR to detect the EPO transgene spiked at 1 copy/μL in plasma. These methods successfully detected the EPO transgene after intramuscular injection into horses. Since each method has different detection sensitivity, the combined use of direct ddPCR for screening and nested ddPCR for confirmation may complement each other and prevent the occurrence of false positives, allowing the reliable detection of gene-doped substances. One advantage of these methods is the small amount of sample required, approximately 2.2-5.0 μl, owing to the lack of a DNA extraction step. Therefore, these tests could be applied to small volume samples as an alternative to conventional gene doping tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Risako Furukawa
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Teruaki Tozaki
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Mio Kikuchi
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Taichiro Ishige
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Yuji Takahashi
- Equine Research Institute, Japan Racing Association, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Emiko Fukui
- School of Agriculture, Utsunomiya University, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Hironaga Kakoi
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan
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Yuen BPN, Wong KS, So YM, Kwok WH, Cheung HW, Wan TSM, Ho ENM, Wong WT. Gene Doping Control Analysis of Human Erythropoietin Transgene in Equine Plasma by PCR-Liquid Chromatography High-Resolution Tandem Mass Spectrometry. Anal Chem 2024; 96:5307-5314. [PMID: 38504497 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.4c00247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Gene doping involves the misuse of genetic materials to alter an athlete's performance, which is banned at all times in both human and equine sports. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assays have been used to control the misuse of transgenes in equine sports. Our laboratory recently developed and implemented duplex as well as multiplex qPCR assays for transgenes detection. To further advance gene doping control, we have developed for the first time a sensitive and definitive PCR-liquid chromatography high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry (PCR-LC-HRMS/MS) method for transgene detection with an estimated limit of detection of below 100 copies/mL for the human erythropoietin (hEPO) transgene in equine plasma. The method involved magnetic-glass-particle-based extraction of DNA from equine plasma prior to PCR amplification with 2'-deoxyuridine 5'-triphosphate (dUTP) followed by treatments with uracil DNA glycosylase and hot piperidine for selective cleavage to give small oligonucleotide fragments. The resulting DNA fragments were then analyzed by LC-HRMS/MS. The applicability of this method has been demonstrated by the successful detection of hEPO transgene in a blood sample collected from a gelding (castrated male horse) that had been administered the transgene. This novel approach not only serves as a complementary method for transgene detection but also paves the way for developing a generic PCR-LC-HRMS/MS method for the detection of multiple transgenes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce Pui-Nam Yuen
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
- Racing Laboratory, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, Sha Tin Racecourse, Sha Tin N.T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Kin-Sing Wong
- Racing Laboratory, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, Sha Tin Racecourse, Sha Tin N.T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Yat-Ming So
- Racing Laboratory, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, Sha Tin Racecourse, Sha Tin N.T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Wai Him Kwok
- Racing Laboratory, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, Sha Tin Racecourse, Sha Tin N.T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Hiu Wing Cheung
- Racing Laboratory, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, Sha Tin Racecourse, Sha Tin N.T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Terence See Ming Wan
- Racing Laboratory, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, Sha Tin Racecourse, Sha Tin N.T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Emmie Ngai-Man Ho
- Racing Laboratory, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, Sha Tin Racecourse, Sha Tin N.T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Wing-Tak Wong
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
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Li R, Su P, Shi Y, Shi H, Ding S, Su X, Chen P, Wu D. Gene doping detection in the era of genomics. Drug Test Anal 2024. [PMID: 38403949 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Recent progress in gene editing has enabled development of gene therapies for many genetic diseases, but also made gene doping an emerging risk in sports and competitions. By delivery of exogenous transgenes into human body, gene doping not only challenges competition fairness but also places health risk on athletes. World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has clearly inhibited the use of gene and cell doping in sports, and many techniques have been developed for gene doping detection. In this review, we will summarize the main tools for gene doping detection at present, highlight the main challenges for current tools, and elaborate future utilizations of high-throughput sequencing for unbiased, sensitive, economic and large-scale gene doping detections. Quantitative real-time PCR assays are the widely used detection methods at present, which are useful for detection of known targets but are vulnerable to codon optimization at exon-exon junction sites of the transgenes. High-throughput sequencing has become a powerful tool for various applications in life and health research, and the era of genomics has made it possible for sensitive and large-scale gene doping detections. Non-biased genomic profiling could efficiently detect new doping targets, and low-input genomics amplification and long-read third-generation sequencing also have application potentials for more efficient and straightforward gene doping detection. By closely monitoring scientific advancements in gene editing and sport genetics, high-throughput sequencing could play a more and more important role in gene detection and hopefully contribute to doping-free sports in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruihong Li
- eHealth Program of Shanghai Anti-doping Laboratory, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Center of Agri-Products Quality and Safety, Shanghai, China
| | - Peipei Su
- Innovative Program of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Shi
- eHealth Program of Shanghai Anti-doping Laboratory, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui Shi
- eHealth Program of Shanghai Anti-doping Laboratory, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shengqian Ding
- eHealth Program of Shanghai Anti-doping Laboratory, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Xianbin Su
- eHealth Program of Shanghai Anti-doping Laboratory, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Center for Systems Biomedicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Peijie Chen
- School of Exercise and Health, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Die Wu
- eHealth Program of Shanghai Anti-doping Laboratory, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
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Lu Y, Yan J, Ou G, Fu L. A Review of Recent Progress in Drug Doping and Gene Doping Control Analysis. Molecules 2023; 28:5483. [PMID: 37513354 PMCID: PMC10386588 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28145483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The illicit utilization of performance-enhancing substances, commonly referred to as doping, not only infringes upon the principles of fair competition within athletic pursuits but also poses significant health hazards to athletes. Doping control analysis has emerged as a conventional approach to ensuring equity and integrity in sports. Over the past few decades, extensive advancements have been made in doping control analysis methods, catering to the escalating need for qualitative and quantitative analysis of numerous banned substances exhibiting diverse chemical and biological characteristics. Progress in science, technology, and instrumentation has facilitated the proliferation of varied techniques for detecting doping. In this comprehensive review, we present a succinct overview of recent research developments within the last ten years pertaining to these doping detection methodologies. We undertake a comparative analysis, evaluating the merits and limitations of each technique, and offer insights into the prospective future advancements in doping detection methods. It is noteworthy that the continual design and synthesis of novel synthetic doping agents have compelled researchers to constantly refine and innovate doping detection methods in order to address the ever-expanding range of covertly employed doping agents. Overall, we remain in a passive position for doping detection and are always on the road to doping control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuze Lu
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, School of Physical Education, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Jiayu Yan
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, School of Physical Education, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Gaozhi Ou
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, School of Physical Education, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Li Fu
- Key Laboratory of Novel Materials for Sensor of Zhejiang Province, College of Materials and Environmental Engineering, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou 310018, China
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Ohnuma A, Tozaki T, Kikuchi M, Ishige T, Kakoi H, Hirota KI, Takahashi Y, Nagata SI. Multiplex Detection of Transgenes Using πCode Technology for Gene Doping Control. Anal Chem 2023. [PMID: 37379520 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.3c00988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
To ensure fair competition and sports integrity, gene doping is prohibited in horseracing and equine sports. One gene doping method is by administering exogenous genes, called transgenes, to postnatal animals. Although several transgene detection methods have been developed for horses, many are unsuitable for multiplex detection. In this proof-of-concept study, we developed a highly sensitive and multiplex transgene detection method using multiple πCode with identification patterns printed on the surface. The following steps were employed: (1) multiplex polymerase chain reaction amplification of 12 targeted transgenes in a single tube, (2) detection using a mixture of 12 probes labeled with different πCodes, and (3) median fluorescence intensity measurement of fluorescent πCodes. Twelve transgenes cloned into plasmid vectors were targeted, and 1500 copies of each plasmid were spiked into 1.5 mL of horse plasma. Subsequently, a novel method using πCode succeeded in detecting all the transgenes using their DNA extracts. Additionally, we detected the erythropoietin (EPO) transgene in blood samples from a horse administered solely with the EPO transgene using this method. Therefore, the πCode detection method is considered suitable for multitarget gene detection in gene doping tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aoi Ohnuma
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2 Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Teruaki Tozaki
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2 Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Mio Kikuchi
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2 Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Taichiro Ishige
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2 Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Hironaga Kakoi
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2 Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Kei-Ichi Hirota
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2 Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Yuji Takahashi
- Equine Research Institute, Japan Racing Association, 1400-4 Shiba, Shimotsuke, Tochigi 329-0412, Japan
| | - Shun-Ichi Nagata
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2 Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
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TOZAKI T, OHNUMA A, KIKUCHI M, ISHIGE T, KAKOI H, HIROTA KI, TAKAHASHI Y, NAGATA SI. Investigation of optimal procedures for storage and use of plasma samples suitable for gene doping tests. J Equine Sci 2023; 34:21-27. [PMID: 37405066 PMCID: PMC10315635 DOI: 10.1294/jes.34.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene doping, which is prohibited in horseracing and equestrian sports, can be performed by introducing exogenous genes, known as transgenes, into the bodies of postnatal animals. To detect exogenous genes, a method utilizing quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) with a hydrolysis probe was developed to test whole blood and plasma samples, thereby protecting the fairness of competition and the rights of stakeholders in horseracing and equestrian sports. Therefore, we aimed to develop sample storage methods suitable for A and B samples in gene doping tests using blood. For sample A, sufficient qPCR detection was demonstrated after refrigeration for 1 to 2 weeks post collection. For sample B, the following procedures were confirmed to be suitable for storage: 1) centrifugation after sample receipt, 2) frozen storage, 3) natural thawing at room temperature, and 4) centrifugation without mixing blood cell components. Our results indicated that long-term cryopreservation yielded good plasma components from frozen blood samples even though it destroyed blood cells, indicating its applicability to the gene doping test using sample B, which can be stored for later use. Sample storage procedures are as important as detection methods in doping tests. Therefore, the series of procedures that we evaluated in this study will contribute to the efficient performance of gene doping tests through qPCR using blood samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teruaki TOZAKI
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of
Racing Chemistry, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Aoi OHNUMA
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of
Racing Chemistry, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Mio KIKUCHI
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of
Racing Chemistry, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Taichiro ISHIGE
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of
Racing Chemistry, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Hironaga KAKOI
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of
Racing Chemistry, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Kei-ichi HIROTA
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of
Racing Chemistry, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Yuji TAKAHASHI
- Equine Research Institute, Japan Racing
Association, Tochigi 329-0412, Japan
| | - Shun-ichi NAGATA
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of
Racing Chemistry, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
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Haughan J, Ortved KF, Robinson MA. Administration and detection of gene therapy in horses: A systematic review. Drug Test Anal 2023; 15:143-162. [PMID: 36269665 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Gene therapy uses genetic modification of cells to produce a therapeutic effect. Defective or missing genes can be repaired or replaced, or gene expression can be modified using a variety of technologies. Repair of defective genes can be achieved using specialized gene editing tools. Gene addition promotes gene expression by introducing synthetic copies of genes of interest (transgenes) into cells where they are transcribed and translated into therapeutic proteins. Protein production can also be modified using therapies that regulate gene expression. Gene therapy is currently prohibited in both human and equine athletes because of the potential to induce production of performance-enhancing proteins in the athlete's body, also referred to as "gene doping." Detection of gene doping is challenging and necessitates development of creative, novel analytical methods for doping control. Methods for detection of gene doping must be specific to and will vary depending on the type of gene therapy. The purpose of this paper is to present the results of a systematic review of gene editing, gene therapy, and detection of gene doping in horses. Based on the published literature, gene therapy has been administered to horses in a large number of experimental studies and a smaller number of clinical cases. Detection of gene therapy is possible using a combination of PCR and sequencing technologies. This summary can provide a basis for discussion of appropriate and inappropriate uses for gene therapy in horses by the veterinary community and guide expansion of methods to detect inappropriate uses by the regulatory community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne Haughan
- Department of Clinical Studies, New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Kyla F Ortved
- Department of Clinical Studies, New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Mary A Robinson
- Department of Clinical Studies, New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, USA.,Pennsylvania Equine Toxicology & Research Center, West Chester University, West Chester, Pennsylvania, USA
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Psychosocial aspects of sports medicine in pediatric athletes: Current concepts in the 21 st century. Dis Mon 2022:101482. [PMID: 36100481 DOI: 10.1016/j.disamonth.2022.101482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Behavioral aspects of organized sports activity for pediatric athletes are considered in a world consumed with winning at all costs. In the first part of this treatise, we deal with a number of themes faced by our children in their sports play. These concepts include the lure of sports, sports attrition, the mental health of pediatric athletes (i.e., effects of stress, anxiety, depression, suicide in athletes, ADHD and stimulants, coping with injuries, drug use, and eating disorders), violence in sports (i.e., concepts of the abused athlete including sexual abuse), dealing with supervisors (i.e., coaches, parents), peers, the talented athlete, early sports specialization and sports clubs. In the second part of this discussion, we cover ergolytic agents consumed by young athletes in attempts to win at all costs. Sports doping agents covered include anabolic steroids (anabolic-androgenic steroids or AAS), androstenedione, dehydroepiandrostenedione (DHEA), human growth hormone (hGH; also its human recombinant homologue: rhGH), clenbuterol, creatine, gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB), amphetamines, caffeine and ephedrine. Also considered are blood doping that includes erythropoietin (EPO) and concepts of gene doping. In the last section of this discussion, we look at disabled pediatric athletes that include such concepts as athletes with spinal cord injuries (SCIs), myelomeningocele, cerebral palsy, wheelchair athletes, and amputee athletes; also covered are pediatric athletes with visual impairment, deafness, and those with intellectual disability including Down syndrome. In addition, concepts of autonomic dysreflexia, boosting and atlantoaxial instability are emphasized. We conclude that clinicians and society should protect our precious pediatric athletes who face many challenges in their involvement with organized sports in a world obsessed with winning. There is much we can do to help our young athletes find benefit from sports play while avoiding or blunting negative consequences of organized sport activities.
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Tozaki T, Ohnuma A, Nakamura K, Hano K, Takasu M, Takahashi Y, Tamura N, Sato F, Shimizu K, Kikuchi M, Ishige T, Kakoi H, Hirota KI, Hamilton NA, Nagata SI. Detection of Indiscriminate Genetic Manipulation in Thoroughbred Racehorses by Targeted Resequencing for Gene-Doping Control. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13091589. [PMID: 36140757 PMCID: PMC9498419 DOI: 10.3390/genes13091589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The creation of genetically modified horses is prohibited in horse racing as it falls under the banner of gene doping. In this study, we developed a test to detect gene editing based on amplicon sequencing using next-generation sequencing (NGS). We designed 1012 amplicons to target 52 genes (481 exons) and 147 single-nucleotide variants (SNVs). NGS analyses showed that 97.7% of the targeted exons were sequenced to sufficient coverage (depth > 50) for calling variants. The targets of artificial editing were defined as homozygous alternative (HomoALT) and compound heterozygous alternative (ALT1/ALT2) insertion/deletion (INDEL) mutations in this study. Four models of gene editing (three homoALT with 1-bp insertions, one REF/ALT with 77-bp deletion) were constructed by editing the myostatin gene in horse fibroblasts using CRISPR/Cas9. The edited cells and 101 samples from thoroughbred horses were screened using the developed test, which was capable of identifying the three homoALT cells containing 1-bp insertions. Furthermore, 147 SNVs were investigated for their utility in confirming biological parentage. Of these, 120 SNVs were amenable to consistent and accurate genotyping. Surrogate (nonbiological) dams were excluded by 9.8 SNVs on average, indicating that the 120 SNV could be used to detect foals that have been produced by somatic cloning or embryo transfer, two practices that are prohibited in thoroughbred racing and breeding. These results indicate that gene-editing tests that include variant calling and SNV genotyping are useful to identify genetically modified racehorses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teruaki Tozaki
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2, Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya 320-0851, Japan
- Correspondence:
| | - Aoi Ohnuma
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2, Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya 320-0851, Japan
| | - Kotono Nakamura
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1, Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Kazuki Hano
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1, Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Masaki Takasu
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1, Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Yuji Takahashi
- Equine Research Institute, Japan Racing Association, 1400-4, Shiba, Shimotsuke 329-0412, Japan
| | - Norihisa Tamura
- Equine Research Institute, Japan Racing Association, 1400-4, Shiba, Shimotsuke 329-0412, Japan
| | - Fumio Sato
- Equine Research Institute, Japan Racing Association, 1400-4, Shiba, Shimotsuke 329-0412, Japan
| | - Kyo Shimizu
- Registration Department, Japan Association for International Racing and Stud Book, 4-5-4, Shimbashi, Minato, Tokyo 105-0004, Japan
| | - Mio Kikuchi
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2, Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya 320-0851, Japan
| | - Taichiro Ishige
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2, Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya 320-0851, Japan
| | - Hironaga Kakoi
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2, Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya 320-0851, Japan
| | - Kei-ichi Hirota
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2, Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya 320-0851, Japan
| | - Natasha A. Hamilton
- Equine Genetics Research Centre, Racing Australia, 2 Randwick Way, Scone, NSW 2337, Australia
| | - Shun-ichi Nagata
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2, Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya 320-0851, Japan
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