1
|
MASUDA M, NIKADORI A, NIKADORI E, UCHIDA N, TAKIZAWA Y, ISHIMARU M, YAMAMOTO T, YUASA R, KUGAI H, NAGAHAMA Y, TAKASU M, TOZAKI T. Evaluation of genetic diversity using 31 microsatellites in Miyako horses. J Equine Sci 2023; 34:1-6. [PMID: 37155490 PMCID: PMC10122988 DOI: 10.1294/jes.34.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The Miyako horse is a native Japanese horse breed. As with other native Japanese horses, the number of Miyako horses decreased due to mechanization and motorization, which reduced their roles, with just 14 in 1980. Although their population had increased to 55 horses by 2021, a further increase in their numbers is required to avoid extinction. Recently, their breeding has involved natural mating during group grazing; therefore, pedigree management has been difficult, and individual identification has been inconclusive. With the aim of formulating an effective breeding plan, this study used microsatellites to confirm parent-offspring relationships and evaluate the genetic diversity over time. First, the combination of microsatellite genotypes identified misunderstood parent-offspring relationships in 35.3% of the existing individuals, and a correct family tree was reconstructed. Next, the number of alleles and observed and expected values of heterozygosity were calculated separately for the populations during periods of 1998-2012 and 2013-2020. The values were 4.2, 0.705, and 0.653 and 3.9, 0.633, and 0.603, respectively, indicating that genetic diversity according to all indices decreased during period of 2013-2020. This was probably because of the bias of stallions in the 2013-2020 population. Errors in pedigree information in a small population such as Miyako horses could increase the risk of inbreeding, and confirmation of parent-offspring relationships using genotypes may be beneficial. Additionally, to maintain diversity in future breeding, it is important to avoid bias, particularly among stallions, and to ensure offspring of various individuals who are as distantly related to each other as possible.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mioko MASUDA
- Nikadori Ranch, Okinawa 906-0013,
Japan
- *Corresponding author:
| | | | | | - Naoya UCHIDA
- VET Co., Ltd. Miyako Veterinary Clinic, Okinawa
906-0106, Japan
| | | | | | | | - Reiko YUASA
- Japan Racing Association, Tokyo 105-0003,
Japan
| | - Haruo KUGAI
- Miyako Horse Conservation Society, Okinawa
906-8501, Japan
| | - Yukio NAGAHAMA
- Miyakojima City History Compilation Committee,
Okinawa 906-0011, Japan
| | - Masaki TAKASU
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of
Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Teruaki TOZAKI
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of
Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of
Racing Chemistry, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
YOSHIHARA T, KIKUCHI M, AKIBA Y, HORIGUCHI M, TAKASU M, TOZAKI T. Genetic diversity analysis and parentage verification of Taishu horses using 31 microsatellites. J Equine Sci 2022; 33:63-69. [PMID: 36699201 PMCID: PMC9843162 DOI: 10.1294/jes.33.63] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The Taishu horse in Tsushima is one of eight Japanese native breeds. The breed is on the verge of extinction due to a rapid decrease in numbers since the 1960s owing to motorization in Japan. In this study, we aimed to confirm the pedigree information of 52 horses by genotyping 31 microsatellites in order to avoid inbreeding. Parentage verification failed to identify genetic contradictions among trios (sires, dams, and foals) registered with the Japan Equine Affairs Association (JEAA). Pedigree information registered at the JEAA was obtained and adequately understood. Additionally, the genetic diversity of the Taishu horses was evaluated and compared with those of other Japanese native breeds. The average values for the number of alleles, observed heterozygosity, expected heterozygosity, and inbreeding coefficient were 4.7, 0.643, 0.632, and -0.02, respectively. Using the Structure software, the 52 horses were classified into three subgroups based on the individuals with more than 50% of specific genetic components. The phylogenetic trees created based on neighbor-joining classification tended to be consistent among the stallions. The effective population size was 27.5 and lower than that required for maintaining 90% genetic variation in the source population over a period of 100 years (47.5). Compared with the other Japanese breeds, the Taishu horse population included in the current study exhibited moderate genetic diversity. Our study will contribute to reconsideration of the breeding strategy of Taishu horses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tomoko YOSHIHARA
- Kamiagata Branch, Tsushima City Office, Nagasaki
817-1602, Japan
| | - Misaki KIKUCHI
- Saikai National Park Kujukushima Zoological and
Botanical Garden, Nagasaki 857-1231, Japan
| | - Yuki AKIBA
- Toyama Municipal Family Park Zoo, Toyama
930-0151, Japan
| | | | - Masaki TAKASU
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of
Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Teruaki TOZAKI
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of
Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu 501-1193, Japan,Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of
Racing Chemistry, Tochigi 320-851, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Voronkova VN, Nikolaeva EA, Piskunov AK, Babayan OV, Takasu M, Tozaki T, Svishcheva GR, Stolpovsky YA. Assessment of Genetic Diversity and Structure of Russian and Mongolian Autochthonous Horse Breeds Using Nuclear and Mitochondrial DNA Markers. RUSS J GENET+ 2022. [DOI: 10.1134/s1022795422080105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
|
4
|
Ono T, Inoue Y, Hisaeda K, Yamada Y, Hata A, Miyama TS, Shibano K, Kitagawa H, Ohzawa E, Iwata E. Effect of seasons and sex on the physical, hematological, and blood biochemical parameters of Noma horses. J Equine Sci 2021; 32:21-25. [PMID: 33776537 PMCID: PMC7984912 DOI: 10.1294/jes.32.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the influence of seasons and sex on body size and
hematological and biochemistry parameters of Noma horses, a native Japanese breed. Body
size was larger in winter than in summer. Laboratory testing variables, including
erythrocytic parameters and urea nitrogen, total cholesterol, and creatinine kinase
levels, were higher in winter, while the eosinophil count was higher in summer. These
seasonal differences may be related to increased energy consumption of horses due to heat
stress. The higher eosinophil counts may have been related to the dermatitis observed in
summer. Stallions tended to have smaller bodies compared with mares. Future studies are
necessary to investigate the effect of stress in seasonal and sex-based groups.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tetsushi Ono
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, Ehime 794-8555, Japan
| | - Yoichi Inoue
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, Ehime 794-8555, Japan
| | - Keiichi Hisaeda
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, Ehime 794-8555, Japan
| | - Yutaka Yamada
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, Ehime 794-8555, Japan
| | - Akihisa Hata
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, Ehime 794-8555, Japan
| | | | - Kenichi Shibano
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, Ehime 794-8555, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Kitagawa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, Ehime 794-8555, Japan
| | - Emi Ohzawa
- Noma Horse Preservation Society, Ehime 794-0082, Japan
| | - Eri Iwata
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, Ehime 794-8555, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Koseman A, Ozsensoy Y, Erdogan M, Yarali C, Toprak B, Zengin K, Seker I. Investigation of Genetic Variations using Microsatellite Markers in Colored Horses in Turkey. RUSS J GENET+ 2020. [DOI: 10.1134/s1022795420050075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
|
6
|
Amano T, Tozaki T, Takasu M, Onogi A, Yamada F, Kawai M, Ueda J. Changes of sires in a breeding farm enables maintenance of DNA-level genetic variation in a produced herd of Hokkaido Native Horses. Anim Sci J 2019; 91:e13318. [PMID: 31755177 DOI: 10.1111/asj.13318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Revised: 10/06/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
We investigated whether regular changes of the sire in a breeding farm of Hokkaido Native Horses (HKDs) enables the DNA-level genetic variation of the produced animals to be maintained. The genotypes of 31 microsatellite markers were identified and analyzed in 207 animals produced in a breeding farm in which the sire was replaced every 3 to 5 years. The mean allele number indicating the degree of genetic variation was 5.97 and was similar to those reported previously. The mean observed heterozygosity was 0.74 and was higher than the expected heterozygosity, 0.69; FIS was -0.07, indicating that the analyzed animals reflected frequent outbreeding and had maintained genetic variation. Based on genetic structural analysis, the number of genetic subpopulations of the animals was estimated to be as 6, and the majority (more than 50%) of each subpopulation corresponded to the progeny of one of the sires used in the breeding farm; these observations suggested that genetic variation in the analyzed animals reflected the genetic differences among sires. Pedigree records indicated that the average co-ancestry coefficient between sires used in the breeding farm was 0.015 corresponding to second cousin. This level of kinship among sires is acceptable for producing HKDs that maintain genetic variation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tomoko Amano
- College of Agriculture, Food and Environment Sciences, Department of Sustainable Agriculture, Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Rakuno Gakuen University, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Teruaki Tozaki
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Tochigi, Japan.,Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu, Japan
| | - Masaki Takasu
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu, Japan
| | - Akio Onogi
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Biology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Fumihiro Yamada
- Field Science Center for Northern Biosphere, Hokkaido University, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Masahito Kawai
- Field Science Center for Northern Biosphere, Hokkaido University, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Junji Ueda
- College of Agriculture, Food and Environment Sciences, Department of Sustainable Agriculture, Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Rakuno Gakuen University, Hokkaido, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ono T, Yamada Y, Hata A, Shimokawa Miyama T, Shibano K, Iwata E, Ohzawa E, Kitagawa H. Reference values of hematological and blood biochemical parameters for the Noma horse. J Equine Sci 2019; 30:69-73. [PMID: 31592225 PMCID: PMC6773617 DOI: 10.1294/jes.30.69] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2019] [Accepted: 07/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The Noma horse is a Japanese breed from the Noma region of Imabari City, Ehime
Prefecture. To obtain reference hematological and biochemical values, we performed
examinations in 39 clinically healthy, mature Noma horses managed at the Imabari public
ranch. Hematological and biochemical results of Noma horses were close to the normal
ranges of horses in the U.S.A. The erythrocyte parameters and hepatobiliary enzyme levels
in Noma and Kiso horses were lower than those in Japanese racehorses. Noma horses showed
higher erythrocyte parameters and triglyceride concentrations and a lower creatinine
concentration compared with those in Kiso horses. These data represent the first report of
reference values for Noma horses and may be useful to improve their management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tetsushi Ono
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, Ehime 794-8555, Japan
| | - Yutaka Yamada
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, Ehime 794-8555, Japan
| | - Akihisa Hata
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, Ehime 794-8555, Japan
| | | | - Kenichi Shibano
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, Ehime 794-8555, Japan
| | - Eri Iwata
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, Ehime 794-8555, Japan
| | - Emi Ohzawa
- Noma Horse Preservation Society, Ehime 794-0082, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Kitagawa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, Ehime 794-8555, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Tozaki T, Kikuchi M, Kakoi H, Hirota K, Nagata S, Yamashita D, Ohnuma T, Takasu M, Kobayashi I, Hobo S, Manglai D, Petersen JL. Genetic diversity and relationships among native Japanese horse breeds, the Japanese Thoroughbred and horses outside of Japan using genome-wide SNP data. Anim Genet 2019; 50:449-459. [PMID: 31282588 DOI: 10.1111/age.12819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Eight horse breeds-Hokkaido, Kiso, Misaki, Noma, Taishu, Tokara, Miyako and Yonaguni-are native to Japan. Although Japanese native breeds are believed to have originated from ancient Mongolian horses imported from the Korean Peninsula, the phylogenetic relationships among these breeds are not well elucidated. In the present study, we compared genetic diversity among 32 international horse breeds previously evaluated by the Equine Genetic Diversity Consortium, the eight Japanese native breeds and Japanese Thoroughbreds using genome-wide SNP genotype data. The proportion of polymorphic loci and expected heterozygosity showed that the native Japanese breeds, with the exception of the Hokkaido, have relatively low diversity compared to the other breeds sampled. Phylogenetic and cluster analyses demonstrated relationships among the breeds that largely reflect their geographic distribution in Japan. Based on these data, we suggest that Japanese horses originated from Mongolian horses migrating through the Korean Peninsula. The Japanese Thoroughbreds were distinct from the native breeds, and although they maintain similar overall diversity as Thoroughbreds from outside Japan, they also show evidence of uniqueness relative to the other Thoroughbred samples. This is the first study to place the eight native Japanese breeds and Japanese Thoroughbred in context with an international sample of diverse breeds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- T Tozaki
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, 320-851, Japan.,Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu, 501-1193, Japan.,College of Animal Science, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China
| | - M Kikuchi
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, 320-851, Japan
| | - H Kakoi
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, 320-851, Japan
| | - K Hirota
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, 320-851, Japan
| | - S Nagata
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, 320-851, Japan
| | - D Yamashita
- Japan Equine Affairs Association, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 104-0033, Japan
| | - T Ohnuma
- Japan Equine Affairs Association, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 104-0033, Japan
| | - M Takasu
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu, 501-1193, Japan
| | - I Kobayashi
- Sumiyoshi Livestock Science Station, Field Science Center, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, 880-0121, Japan
| | - S Hobo
- Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, 890-0065, Japan
| | - D Manglai
- College of Animal Science, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China
| | - J L Petersen
- Department of Animal Science, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68583-0908, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Kobayashi I, Akita M, Takasu M, Tozaki T, Kakoi H, Nakamura K, Senju N, Matsuyama R, Horii Y. Genetic characteristics of feral Misaki horses based on polymorphisms of microsatellites and mitochondrial DNA. J Vet Med Sci 2019; 81:707-711. [PMID: 30867351 PMCID: PMC6541847 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.18-0565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The Misaki horse is a Japanese native horse, known as the “feral horse of Cape Toi”. In this study, we acquired the genetic information to establish their studbook, and analyzed their
genetic characteristics for conservation. We genotyped 32 microsatellites and a mitochondrial D-loop region in 77 Misaki horses (80.2% of the population). The average number of alleles,
observed heterozygosity, and expected heterozygosity were 3.4, 0.509, and 0.497, respectively. A neighbor-joining phylogenetic tree of individuals was constructed. Moreover, the results
suggested that Misaki horses experienced a bottleneck, but it was neither severe nor recent. In addition, three mitochondrial haplotypes were confirmed. Consequently, we clarified the
genetic background of Misaki horses that have been resident at Cape Toi for a long time.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ikuo Kobayashi
- Sumiyoshi Livestock Science Station, Field Science Center, University of Miyazaki, 10100-1 Shimanouchi, Miyazaki 880-0121, Japan
| | - Masaru Akita
- Kushima City, 5550 Nishikata, Kushima, Miyazaki 888-8555, Japan
| | - Masaki Takasu
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan.,Education Center for Food Animal Health, Gifu University (GeFAH), 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Teruaki Tozaki
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan.,Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2 Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Hironaga Kakoi
- Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2 Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Kotono Nakamura
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Natsuko Senju
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Ryota Matsuyama
- Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 15 Jo Nishi 7 chome, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-8638, Japan
| | - Yoichiro Horii
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, 1-1 Gakuen Kibanadai Nishi, Miyazaki 889-2192, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Senju N, Tozaki T, Kakoi H, Matsuyama R, Nakamura K, Takasu M. Genetic relationship between Miyako and Yonaguni horses native to Okinawa based on polymorphisms of microsatellites. J Equine Sci 2018; 29:87-90. [PMID: 30607131 PMCID: PMC6306297 DOI: 10.1294/jes.29.87] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The Miyako and Yonaguni horses are native horses in Okinawa. Here, we evaluated their
genetic relationship using microsatellite data and Kiso horses, which have four
subpopulations, as a reference population for evaluating this relationship. Microsatellite
data from 35 Miyako, 78 Yonaguni, and 172 Kiso horses were evaluated using the STRUCTURE
software for analyzing multilocus genotype data to investigate the population structures
and their underlying relationship. The results of the STRUCTURE analysis were stable when
ΔK was 2, suggesting that the Okinawan horses are different from the Kiso horses.
Moreover, the results were also stable when ΔK was 6; the sample was then divided into
four subpopulations of the Kiso horses and two Okinawan horse breeds. However, the
diagrams from the STRUCTURE analysis were unstable when ΔK was 3. These results suggest
that the genetic relationship of the Okinawan horse breeds may be close, similar to that
among the subpopulations of the Kiso horses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natsuko Senju
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu 501-1193, Japan.,Nagoya Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens, Aichi 464-0804, Japan
| | - Teruaki Tozaki
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu 501-1193, Japan.,Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | | | - Ryota Matsuyama
- Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan
| | - Kotono Nakamura
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Masaki Takasu
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu 501-1193, Japan.,Education and Research Center for Food Animal Health (GeFAH), Gifu University, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Senokuchi A, Ishikawa S, Tozaki T, Takasu M, Kakoi H, Misumi K, Hobo S. Genetic analyses for conservation of the traditional Tokara horse using 31 microsatellite markers. J Equine Sci 2018; 29:97-104. [PMID: 30607133 PMCID: PMC6306296 DOI: 10.1294/jes.29.97] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In order to promote conservation of the traditional Tokara horse in its remaining three
breeding areas in Japan (Nakanoshima, Kaimondake, and Iriki), we genotyped 123 horses
using 31 microsatellite markers and determined their genetic diversity. On average, the
number of alleles (NA), observed heterozygosity (HO), expected
heterozygosity (HE), and inbreeding coefficient (FIS) among all
horses were 3.0, 0.424, 0.481, and 0.108, respectively. Compared with other endangered
horse breeds, we found that, even though the size of the Tokara horse population has
recently increased, the NA, HO, and HE of Tokara horses
are still notably lower than those of other breeds. Neighbor-joining tree and STRUCTURE
analysis showed that the current population of Tokara horses is divided into three
subpopulations, corresponding to their respective feeding and breeding areas: Nakanoshima,
Kaimondake, and Iriki. This subdivision was also reflected in the NA of
microsatellite DNAs, with four, three, and four different loci showing single alleles in
Nakanoshima, Kaimondake, and Iriki horses, respectively. These alleles are considered to
have become fixed as a consequence of breeding within the limited number of horses in each
area. Since Tokara horses are currently strongly divided into subpopulations, it is
vitally important to exchange several horses among their different breeding units in order
to maintain the genetic diversity of the Tokara horse as a unique breed. The data obtained
in this study contribute toward explaining the history of Tokara horses and also provide
important information for future monitoring of population diversity and guiding
conservation measures for this endangered breed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Akane Senokuchi
- Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan
| | - Shingo Ishikawa
- Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan
| | - Teruaki Tozaki
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan.,Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Masaki Takasu
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Hironaga Kakoi
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Misumi
- Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan
| | - Seiji Hobo
- Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Nakamura K, Tozaki T, Kakoi H, Owada S, Takasu M. Variation in the MC1R, ASIP, and MATP genes responsible for coat color in Kiso horse as determined by SNaPshot™ genotyping. J Vet Med Sci 2018; 81:100-102. [PMID: 30464090 PMCID: PMC6361661 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.18-0458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Kiso horse is a breed of Japanese native horses. In this study, to clarify coat color gene variation in Kiso horses, we used SNaPshot™ genotyping to evaluate variation in
MC1R, ASIP, and MATP genes at the Extension (E), Agouti (A), and
Cream dilution (C) loci. The coat color of 149 horses was documented. The coat color of 140, 3, and 6 horses was bay, chestnut, and buckskin,
respectively. Furthermore, the frequency of alleles E, e, A, a, C, and Cr was 0.80,
0.20, 0.86, 0.14, 0.98, and 0.02, respectively. Current status of coat color genes in Kiso horses was clarified, and this information will help plan further conservation of the horses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kotono Nakamura
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Teruaki Tozaki
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan.,Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2 Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Hironaga Kakoi
- Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2 Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Satsuki Owada
- 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.,Education and Research Center for Food Animal Health (GeFAH), Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Kakoi H, Kikuchi M, Tozaki T, Hirota KI, Nagata SI, Hobo S, Takasu M. Distribution of Y chromosomal haplotypes in Japanese native horse populations. J Equine Sci 2018; 29:39-42. [PMID: 29991921 PMCID: PMC6033617 DOI: 10.1294/jes.29.39] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2018] [Accepted: 03/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The distribution of Y chromosomal haplotypes in Japanese native horse populations was investigated to obtain genetic information on these populations. Here, 159 male/gelded horses from
eight local populations were investigated, and three Y haplotypes (JHT-1, JHT-2, and JHT-3) were identified by analyzing five Y-linked loci. Five populations had only JHT-1, whereas two
populations had only JHT-2. One population had JHT-1 and JHT-3. Based on the geographical distribution of these haplotypes and previously reported haplotypes for other Asian horses, JHT-1 is
considered to be a major haplotype in ancestral native horses. The fixation of each haplotype suggests the influence of independent breeding and genetic drift in each population. These
findings complement the results from previous genetic studies of Japanese native horses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Mio Kikuchi
- Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | | | | | | | - Seiji Hobo
- Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan
| | - Masaki Takasu
- Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Senju N, Tozaki T, Kakoi H, Shinjo A, Matsuyama R, Almunia J, Takasu M. Genetic diversity of the Yonaguni horse based on polymorphisms in microsatellites and mitochondrial DNA. J Vet Med Sci 2016; 79:425-431. [PMID: 28049866 PMCID: PMC5326952 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.16-0040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Thirty-two microsatellites and a mitochondrial DNA haplotypes of endangered Yonaguni
horses were analyzed to establish a pedigree registration system and to understand their
genetic diversity for planning effective conservation. Blood samples were collected from
78 of the 130 horses in existence, and DNA was extracted and genotyped. There were two
major findings. One is that it is possible to use microsatellites for Yonaguni horse
pedigree registration in the future because the power of exclusion of parentage testing is
reliable at 0.999998. The second is the clarification of the current genetic diversity of
Yonaguni horses. The average number of alleles, observed heterozygosity, expected
heterozygosity and fixation index were 4.4, 0.591, 0.601 and 0.016, respectively, for the
analyzed horses. The probability of a genetic bottleneck, under the assumptions of the
stepwise mutation model, was 0.432, suggesting that the genetic structure of the horses
was not influenced by a recent bottleneck. Genetic distance between individuals was
visualized by a phylogenetic tree based on the proportion of shared alleles. Structure
analysis based on Bayesian clustering revealed the possibility that Yonaguni horses
comprise four or five subpopulations. Consequently, although only two haplotypes were
identified in the mitochondrial analysis, genetic diversity of Yonaguni horses was not
particularly low in comparison with that of other breeds that are at risk of
extinction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natsuko Senju
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University,1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Senju N, Tozaki T, Kakoi H, Almunia J, Maeda M, Matsuyama R, Takasu M. Genetic characterization of the Miyako horse based on polymorphisms of microsatellites and mitochondrial DNA. J Vet Med Sci 2016; 79:218-223. [PMID: 27795462 PMCID: PMC5289264 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.16-0111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
To help plan conservation of the endangered Miyako horse, a biological resource of the Miyako Islands in Japan, we characterized the genetics of the breed by
genotyping 32 microsatellites and identifying mitochondrial DNA haplotypes. We also calculated genetic distances between individuals based on the proportion of
shared alleles and visualized the genetic relationships with a phylogenetic tree. Two important results were obtained. One is that accurate pedigree
registration of the horse by using microsatellites is possible, as the exclusion power of parentage testing is 0.999998. Another is that the current genetic
diversity of the horses was clarified. The average number of alleles, observed heterozygosity and expected heterozygosity were 4.2, 0.701 and 0.649,
respectively, for the 35 analyzed horses. The probability values for bottleneck models (infinite allele model: 0.00000; stepwise mutation model: 0.00026; and
two-phase model: 0.00000) suggested that Miyako horses have experienced a recent genetic bottleneck. Only one mitochondrial haplotype was identified.
Consequently, genetic diversity within the population is relatively well-maintained despite a very small population size (41 at the time of the study), and the
first priority in conservation of the Miyako horse is to increase the population size.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natsuko Senju
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Cardinali I, Lancioni H, Giontella A, Capodiferro MR, Capomaccio S, Buttazzoni L, Biggio GP, Cherchi R, Albertini E, Olivieri A, Cappelli K, Achilli A, Silvestrelli M. An Overview of Ten Italian Horse Breeds through Mitochondrial DNA. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0153004. [PMID: 27054850 PMCID: PMC4824442 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0153004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2015] [Accepted: 03/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The climatic and cultural diversity of the Italian Peninsula triggered, over time, the development of a great variety of horse breeds, whose origin and history are still unclear. To clarify this issue, analyses on phenotypic traits and genealogical data were recently coupled with molecular screening. METHODOLOGY To provide a comprehensive overview of the horse genetic variability in Italy, we produced and phylogenetically analyzed 407 mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control-region sequences from ten of the most important Italian riding horse and pony breeds: Bardigiano, Esperia, Giara, Lipizzan, Maremmano, Monterufolino, Murgese, Sarcidano, Sardinian Anglo-Arab, and Tolfetano. A collection of 36 Arabian horses was also evaluated to assess the genetic consequences of their common use for the improvement of some local breeds. CONCLUSIONS In Italian horses, all previously described domestic mtDNA haplogroups were detected as well as a high haplotype diversity. These findings indicate that the ancestral local mares harbored an extensive genetic diversity. Moreover, the limited haplotype sharing (11%) with the Arabian horse reveals that its impact on the autochthonous mitochondrial gene pools during the final establishment of pure breeds was marginal, if any. The only significant signs of genetic structure and differentiation were detected in the geographically most isolated contexts (i.e. Monterufolino and Sardinian breeds). Such a geographic effect was also confirmed in a wider breed setting, where the Italian pool stands in an intermediate position together with most of the other Mediterranean stocks. However, some notable exceptions and peculiar genetic proximities lend genetic support to historical theories about the origin of specific Italian breeds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irene Cardinali
- Dipartimento di Chimica, Biologia e Biotecnologie, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Hovirag Lancioni
- Dipartimento di Chimica, Biologia e Biotecnologie, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Andrea Giontella
- Centro di Studio del Cavallo Sportivo, Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | | | - Stefano Capomaccio
- Centro di Studio del Cavallo Sportivo, Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Luca Buttazzoni
- Centro di ricerca per la produzione delle carni e il miglioramento genetico, Sede centrale–Monterotondo, Roma, Italy
| | | | - Raffaele Cherchi
- Agenzia per la ricerca in agricoltura–AGRIS Sardegna, Sassari, Italy
| | - Emidio Albertini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie, Alimentari ed Ambientali, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Anna Olivieri
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie “L. Spallanzani”, Università di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Katia Cappelli
- Centro di Studio del Cavallo Sportivo, Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Alessandro Achilli
- Dipartimento di Chimica, Biologia e Biotecnologie, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie “L. Spallanzani”, Università di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- * E-mail:
| | - Maurizio Silvestrelli
- Centro di Studio del Cavallo Sportivo, Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Masatani T, Takashima Y, Takasu M, Matsuu A, Amaya T. Prevalence of anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibody in domestic horses in Japan. Parasitol Int 2015; 65:146-50. [PMID: 26593178 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2015.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2015] [Revised: 11/04/2015] [Accepted: 11/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The present study is the first report that investigated the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection in domestic horses in various prefectures of Japan and analyzed risk factors for seropositivity. We performed a latex agglutination test for riding/racing horses from 11 prefectures in Japan (783 samples) and 4 groups of Japanese native horses (254 samples). The total seroprevalence of anti-T. gondii antibody in horses examined in this study was 4.24% (44/1037). As for riding/racing horses, we did not find a statistically different T. gondii seroprevalence between sampling prefectures. In contrast, seroprevalence of T. gondii in older horses (>21 years) was significantly higher than that in younger horses (<5 years and 11-15 years). There was no significant difference in T. gondii seroprevalence between riding/racing horses and Japanese native horses. Logistical regression analysis revealed that age, but not sex and usage, is a significant risk factor of T. gondii infection for domestic horses in Japan. These findings suggest that domesticated horses in Japan can be horizontally infected with T. gondii by ingestion of food or water contaminated with oocysts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tatsunori Masatani
- Transboundary Animal Diseases Research Center, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Korimoto 1-21-24, Kagoshima, Japan.
| | - Yasuhiro Takashima
- Department of Veterinary Parasitological Diseases, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, Yanagido 1-1, Gifu, Japan
| | - Masaki Takasu
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Theriogenology, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, Yanagido 1-1, Gifu, Japan
| | - Aya Matsuu
- Transboundary Animal Diseases Research Center, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Korimoto 1-21-24, Kagoshima, Japan
| | - Tomohiko Amaya
- Yamatokohgen Animal Medical Clinic, Habikino, Osaka, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Winton CL, Plante Y, Hind P, McMahon R, Hegarty MJ, McEwan NR, Davies-Morel MCG, Morgan CM, Powell W, Nash DM. Comparative genetic diversity in a sample of pony breeds from the U.K. and North America: a case study in the conservation of global genetic resources. Ecol Evol 2015; 5:3507-22. [PMID: 26380682 PMCID: PMC4569044 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.1562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2014] [Revised: 05/14/2015] [Accepted: 05/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Most species exist as subdivided ex situ daughter population(s) derived from a single original group of individuals. Such subdivision occurs for many reasons both natural and manmade. Traditional British and Irish pony breeds were introduced to North America (U.S.A. and Canada) within the last 150 years, and subsequently equivalent breed societies were established. We have analyzed selected U.K. and North American equivalent pony populations as a case study for understanding the relationship between putative source and derived subpopulations. Diversity was measured using mitochondrial DNA and a panel of microsatellite markers. Genetic signatures differed between the North American subpopulations according to historical management processes. Founder effect and stochastic drift was apparent, particularly pronounced in some breeds, with evidence of admixture of imported mares of different North American breeds. This demonstrates the importance of analysis of subpopulations to facilitate understanding the genetic effects of past management practices and to lead to informed future conservation strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clare L Winton
- IBERS, Aberystwyth University Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, SY23 3DA, U.K
| | - Yves Plante
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, S7N 5A8, Canada
| | - Pamela Hind
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, S7N 5A8, Canada
| | - Robert McMahon
- IBERS, Aberystwyth University Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, SY23 3DA, U.K
| | - Matthew J Hegarty
- IBERS, Aberystwyth University Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, SY23 3DA, U.K
| | - Neil R McEwan
- IBERS, Aberystwyth University Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, SY23 3DA, U.K
| | | | - Charly M Morgan
- IBERS, Aberystwyth University Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, SY23 3DA, U.K
| | | | - Deborah M Nash
- IBERS, Aberystwyth University Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, SY23 3DA, U.K
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Abstract
Salernitano (SAL) is an ancient Italian horse breed developed over the course of the ages together with Napoletano and, during the 20th century, by crossing with Thoroughbred horse lines. Excellent in hurdle jumping, this breed is currently facing a concrete risk of extinction due to the lack of appropriate management strategies. This research is the first SAL genetic characterization that aims to set up the basic knowledge for a conservation plan. A representative sample of 61 SALs was analyzed by means of a set of 16 microsatellites markers (short tandem repeats (STRs)). The sequence of hypervariable D-loop mtDNA region was also performed on a subset of 24 mares in order to study the maternal diversity and obtain a complete picture of the internal genetic variation. All the molecular data were analyzed together with those obtained from three Sicilian horse breeds investigated in a previous research (Siciliano, Sanfratellano and Sicilian Oriental Purebred). STRs markers revealed a moderate level of genetic diversity in SAL (alleles/locus 5.1, He 0.67) and confirmed the hunch of genetic erosion. Autosomal variability highlighted a very light deficit of homozygotes (FIS=-0.067). Experimental D-loop sequences were compared by multiple alignments with those retrieved from biological databases and revealed two unreported haplotypes. The phylogenetic network, which was built on mtDNA sequences, included various cosmopolitan and European horses and showed SAL haplotypes distributed among different mtDNA lineages.
Collapse
|
20
|
Takasu M, Ishihara N, Tozaki T, Kakoi H, Maeda M, Mukoyama H. Genetic diversity of maternal lineage in the endangered Kiso horse based on polymorphism of the mitochondrial DNA D-loop region. J Vet Med Sci 2014; 76:1451-6. [PMID: 25056676 PMCID: PMC4272977 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.14-0231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
To determine genetic
characteristics of the maternal lineage of the Kiso horse based on polymorphisms of the
mitochondrial DNA D-loop region, we collected blood samples from 136 Kiso horses, 91% of
the entire population, and sequenced 411 bp from 15,437 to 15,847 in the region. First of
all, we estimated the demographic history; by searching homology between the obtained and
known sequences using Basic Local Alignment Search Tool, by mismatch analysis to evaluate
the mutation processes using Arlequin, and by building a phylogenetic tree showing the
relationship of the mtDNA haplotypes for 24 horse breeds around the world using Molecular
Evolutionary Genetics Analysis softwear. The results suggested that various horses that
came to Japan stayed at Kiso region and became ancestors of Kiso horse and also
genetically supported the theory that the Kiso horse was historically improved by other
Japanese native horse breeds. Next, we analyzed the diversity of current maternal lineage
by classifying the resulting sequences, and by calculating the haplotype diversity and
nucleotide diversity using Arlequin. Then, we visualized the relationship among haplotypes
by a median-joining network using NETWORK 4.6.0.0. The results suggested the diversity of
maternal lineage in the Kiso horse was reasonably maintained. Lastly, we predicted future
change of the diversity of maternal lineage in Kiso horse by assessing the regional
distribution of the acquired haplotypes. The distribution suggested that diversity of
maternal lineage would possibly be reducing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masaki Takasu
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Zhang T, Lu H, Chen C, Jiang H, Wu S. Genetic Diversity of mtDNA D-loop and Maternal Origin of Three Chinese Native Horse Breeds. ASIAN-AUSTRALASIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCES 2014; 25:921-6. [PMID: 25049645 PMCID: PMC4092969 DOI: 10.5713/ajas.2011.11483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2011] [Revised: 05/04/2012] [Accepted: 02/16/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
In order to protect the genetic resource of native horse breeds, the genetic diversity of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) D-loop of three native horse breeds in western China were investigated. Forty-three 600 bp mtDNA D-loop sequences were analyzed by PCR and sequencing techniques, 33 unique haplotypes with 70 polymorphic sites were detected in these horses, which account for 11.67% of 600 bp sequence analyzed, showing the abundant genetic diversity of the three native horse breeds in western China. The Neighbour-Joining (NJ) phylogenetic tree based on 247 bp of 43 D-loop sequences demonstrated the presence of seven major lineages (A to G), indicating that the three native horse breeds in western China originated from multiple maternal origins. Consistent with the front, the NJ phylogenetic tree based on 600 bp of mtDNA D-loop sequences of 43 Chinese western native horses and 81 sequences of six horse breeds from GenBank indicated that the three horse breeds had distributed into the seven major lineages (A to G). The structure of the phylogenic tree is often blurred because the variation in a short segment of the mitochondrial genome is often accompanied by high levels of recurrent mutations. Consequently, longer D-loop sequences are helpful in achieving a higher level of molecular resolution in horses.
Collapse
|
22
|
Takasu M, Nagatani N, Tozaki T, Kakoi H, Maeda M, Murase T, Mukoyama H. Hematological and biochemical reference values for the endangered kiso horse. J Equine Sci 2013; 24:75-8. [PMID: 24834006 PMCID: PMC4013988 DOI: 10.1294/jes.24.75] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2013] [Accepted: 10/21/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
To establish blood and biochemical references for the endangered Kiso horse, blood
samples were collected from 111 adult Kiso horses, 74.5% of the existing breed. The
samples were analyzed for 23 hematological and biochemical parameters to determine their
means and standard deviations (SD). We compared the mean ± 2SD with the reference values
cited in one of the most commonly used veterinary textbooks in Japan. The hematology of
Kiso horses is characterized by lower erythrocyte count and hematocrit and hemoglobin
levels. In addition, their serum biochemistry showed lower levels of aspartate
transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, and γ-glutamyl transferase. Whether these propensities
are attributed to breed-specific factors or are acquired factors remains unclear.
Nevertheless, this study provides useful diagnostic indices for the endangered Kiso
horse.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masaki Takasu
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Nana Nagatani
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Teruaki Tozaki
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu, Gifu 501-1193, Japan ; Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2 Tsuruta-cho, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Hironaga Kakoi
- Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2 Tsuruta-cho, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Masami Maeda
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Tetsuma Murase
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Harutaka Mukoyama
- Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, 1-7-1 Kyonan-cho, Musashino, Tokyo 180-8602, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Khanshour AM, Cothran EG. Maternal phylogenetic relationships and genetic variation among Arabian horse populations using whole mitochondrial DNA D-loop sequencing. BMC Genet 2013; 14:83. [PMID: 24034565 PMCID: PMC3847362 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2156-14-83] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2013] [Accepted: 09/11/2013] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Maternal inheritance is an essential point in Arabian horse population genetics and strains classification. The mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequencing is a highly informative tool to investigate maternal lineages. We sequenced the whole mtDNA D-loop of 251 Arabian horses to study the genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationships of Arabian populations and to examine the traditional strain classification system that depends on maternal family lines using native Arabian horses from the Middle East. RESULTS The variability in the upstream region of the D-loop revealed additional differences among the haplotypes that had identical sequences in the hypervariable region 1 (HVR1). While the American-Arabians showed relatively low diversity, the Syrian population was the most variable and contained a very rare and old haplogroup. The Middle Eastern horses had major genetic contributions to the Western horses and there was no clear pattern of differentiation among all tested populations. Our results also showed that several individuals from different strains shared a single haplotype, and individuals from a single strain were represented in clearly separated haplogroups. CONCLUSIONS The whole mtDNA D-loop sequence was more powerful for analysis of the maternal genetic diversity in the Arabian horses than using just the HVR1. Native populations from the Middle East, such as Syrians, could be suggested as a hot spot of genetic diversity and may help in understanding the evolution history of the Arabian horse breed. Most importantly, there was no evidence that the Arabian horse breed has clear subdivisions depending on the traditional maternal based strain classification system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anas M Khanshour
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-4458, USA
| | - Ernest Gus Cothran
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-4458, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Prystupa JM, Hind P, Cothran EG, Plante Y. Maternal lineages in native Canadian equine populations and their relationship to the Nordic and Mountain and Moorland pony breeds. J Hered 2012; 103:380-90. [PMID: 22504109 DOI: 10.1093/jhered/ess003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
A 378-bp section of the mitochondrial displacement loop was used to estimate genetic diversity in the native Canadian equine populations. The inclusion of 10 Mountain and Moorland, 3 Nordic pony breeds, 2 feral populations, and 5 horse breeds were also investigated as they may have influenced the development (or rejuvenation) of the native Canadian populations. A total of 281 samples were sequenced, which produced 75 haplotypes derived from 54 informative sites. On further investigation, 36 of these 75 haplotypes were found to be previously unreported. Overall, total diversity was lowest in the feral Sable Island population with a haplotype diversity (0.27 ± 0.12), nucleotide diversity (0.0007 ± 0.0004), and pairwise difference of 0.286 ± 0.317. This is not surprising due to the geographic isolation of this population. Haplotype diversity was highest (1.00 ± 0.13) in the New Forest population, pairwise difference was highest (8.061 ± 4.028) in the Icelandic breed, whereas nucleotide diversity was highest in the Exmoor breed (0.0209 ± 0.0025). Within the Canadian populations, haplotype diversity was highest in the Newfoundland pony (0.96 ± 0.08), whereas pairwise difference and nucleotide diversity was highest in the Canadian horse (7.090 ± 3.581 and 0.0188 ± 0.0042, respectively). Three different estimates of genetic distances were used to examine the phylogenetic relationships amongst these populations. All 3 estimates produced similar topologies. In general, the native Canadian populations were highly represented in the D clade, with particular emphasis in the D1 and D2 clades. This is an important factor when considering the phylogenetic conservation of these Canadian equine populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jaclyn Mercedes Prystupa
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada S7N 5A8.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Takasu M, Hiramatsu N, Tozaki T, Kakoi H, Hasegawa T, Maeda M, Kusuda S, Doi O, Murase T, Mukoyama H. Population statistics and biological traits of endangered kiso horse. J Equine Sci 2012; 22:67-72. [PMID: 24833989 PMCID: PMC4013974 DOI: 10.1294/jes.22.67] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/27/2011] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to clarify the current status of endangered Kiso horse,
population statistics and biological traits, in order to take a step for the conservation
by scientific approach. We surveyed 125 Kiso horses (86.2% of the whole breed), analyzed
the construction of the population, and calculated the coefficient of inbreeding and
effective population size. Moreover, we confirmed coat color variations and the
traditional traits of the Kiso horse, and measured their height at the withers and chest
circumference to clarify their physical characteristics. The population pyramid of the
horses was stationary or contractive, suggesting a reduction of the population in the near
future. The effective population size of the horse (47.9) suggested that the diversity was
much less than their census size, and the high coefficient of inbreeding, 0.11 ± 0.07 on
average, suggested that the horses were surely inbred. The horses had only 4 coat colors;
bay, dark bay, buckskin dun, and chestnut, and 116 horses (92.8%) were bayish color,
suggesting the fixation in their coat color. Moreover, the majority of them had dorsal
stripe (83 horses; 66.4%), and the average heights at withers(131.9 ± 4.4 cm) and chest
circumference (167.1 ± 10.1 cm) were not significantly different between males and
females.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masaki Takasu
- Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Nana Hiramatsu
- Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Teruaki Tozaki
- Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2 Tsuruta-cho, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Hironaga Kakoi
- Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2 Tsuruta-cho, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Telhisa Hasegawa
- Equine Research Institute, Japan Racing Association, 321-4 Tokami-cho, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 320-0856, Japan
| | - Masami Maeda
- Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | | | - Satoshi Kusuda
- Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Osamu Doi
- Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Tetsuma Murase
- Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Harutaka Mukoyama
- Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, 1-7-1 Kyonan-cho, Musashino, Tokyo 180-8602, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Guastella AM, Zuccaro A, Criscione A, Marletta D, Bordonaro S. Genetic analysis of Sicilian autochthonous horse breeds using nuclear and mitochondrial DNA markers. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 102:753-8. [PMID: 21914666 DOI: 10.1093/jhered/esr091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Genetic diversity and relationship among 3 Sicilian horse breeds were investigated using 16 microsatellite markers and a 397-bp length mitochondrial D-loop sequence. The analysis of autosomal DNA was performed on 191 horses (80 Siciliano [SIC], 61 Sanfratellano [SAN], and 50 Sicilian Oriental Purebred [SOP]). SIC and SAN breeds were notably higher in genetic variability than the SOP. Genetic distances and cluster analysis showed a close relationship between SIC and SAN breeds, as expected according to the breeds' history. Sequencing of hypervariable mitochondrial DNA region was performed on a subset of 60 mares (20 for each breed). Overall, 20 haplotypes with 31 polymorphic sites were identified: A higher haplotype diversity was detected in SIC and SAN breeds, with 13 and 11 haplotypes respectively, whereas only one haplotype was found in SOP. These were compared with 118 sequences from GenBank. BLAST showed that 17 of the 20 haplotypes had been reported previously in other breeds. One haplotype, found in SIC, traces back to a Bronze Age archaeological site (Inner Mongolia). The 3 Sicilian breeds are now rare, and 2 of them are officially endangered. Our results represent a valuable tool for management strategies as well as for conservation purposes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maria Guastella
- DISPA Sezione di Scienze delle Produzioni Animali, Università degli Studi di Catania, via Valdisavoia, 5, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Xu H, Han W, Zhao C, Manglai D. A suspect horse excluded by analysis of species- and male-specific DNA and mtDNA. Forensic Sci Int 2011; 207:e66-8. [PMID: 21376488 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2011.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2010] [Revised: 12/29/2010] [Accepted: 02/06/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
28
|
The complete mitochondrial genome and phylogenetic analysis of the Debao pony (Equus caballus). Mol Biol Rep 2011; 38:593-9. [PMID: 20390359 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-010-0145-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2010] [Accepted: 03/23/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The Debao pony (Equus caballus) is the most important local variety of domestic horses, and is strictly protected by the Chinese government. Their average adult withers height is 94.42±3.76 cm for males and 98.35±4.55 cm for females, respectively. In the present study, the complete sequence of the Debao pony mitochondrial genome was determined (GenBank Accession No. EU939445), and was found to be similar to other equine mitochondrial genomes. However, there were 85 nucleotide substitutions in the 13 protein-coding genes; the percentage of substitution was 0.8±0.1. Polymorphisms of mtDNA control regions were analyzed with restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP), and 19 haplotypes were found, with a genetic diversity of 0.77. Neighbor-Joining (NJ) and Minimum Evolution (ME) trees based on complete control regions of mtDNA were constructed with the Maximum Composite Likelihood (MCL) method. The analysis indicated that the origins of the Debao pony were scattered in the various branches of the phylogenetic tree. The results from the present study suggest that the Debao pony is derived from multi-matrilineal origins of the species.
Collapse
|
29
|
Ling YH, Ma YH, Guan WJ, Cheng YJ, Wang YP, Han JL, Mang L, Zhao QJ, He XH, Pu YB, Fu BL. Evaluation of the genetic diversity and population structure of Chinese indigenous horse breeds using 27 microsatellite markers. Anim Genet 2011; 42:56-65. [PMID: 20477800 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2052.2010.02067.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
We determined the genetic diversity and evolutionary relationships among 26 Chinese indigenous horse breeds and two introduced horse breeds by genotyping these animals for 27 microsatellite loci. The 26 Chinese horse breeds come from 12 different provinces. Two introduced horse breeds were the Mongolia B Horse from Mongolia and the Thoroughbred Horse from the UK. A total of 330 alleles were detected, and the expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.719 (Elenchuns) to 0.780 (Dali). The mean number of alleles among the horse breeds ranged from 6.74 (Hequ) to 8.81 (Debao). Although there were abundant genetic variations found, the genetic differentiation was low between the Chinese horses, which displayed only 2.4% of the total genetic variance among the different breeds. However, genetic differentiation (pairwise FST) among Chinese horses, although moderate, was still apparent and varied from 0.001 for the Guizou-Luoping pair to 0.064 for the Jingjiang-Elenchuns pair. The genetic differentiation patterns and genetic relationships among Chinese horse breeds were also consistent with their geographical distribution. The Thoroughbred and Mongolia B breeds could be discerned as two distinct breeds, but the Mongolia B horse in particular suffered genetic admixture with Chinese horses. The Chinese breeds could be divided into five major groups, i.e. the south or along the Yangtze river group (Bose, Debao, Wenshan, Lichuan, Jianchang, Guizhou, Luoping, Jinjiang and Dali), the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau group (Chaidamu, Hequ, Datong, Yushu, Tibet Grassland and Tibet Valley), the Northeast of China group (Elenchuns, Jilin and Heihe), the Northwest of China group (Kazakh, Yili and Yanqi) and the Inner Mongolia group (Mongolia A, Sanhe, Xinihe,Wuzhumuqin and Sengeng). This grouping pattern was further supported by principal component analysis and structure analysis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Y H Ling
- Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Costa MAP, Bressel RMC, Almeida DB, Oliveira PA, Bassini LN, Moreira CGA, Manzke VHB, Siewerdt F, Moreira HLM. Genotyping in the Brazilian Criollo Horse Stud Book: resources and perspectives. GENETICS AND MOLECULAR RESEARCH 2010; 9:1645-53. [PMID: 20799161 DOI: 10.4238/vol9-3gmr854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
The goal of this research was to evaluate the ability of the genotyping information available in the Brazilian Criollo Horse Stud Book to describe the genetic variability of the breed and the exclusion probability determined in comparative tests. Altogether, two softwares were used in the analyses of the available genotypes: Cervus 3.0.3 and Genepop 4.0. Eight microsatellite markers totaled 109 alleles, with an average of 13.6 +/- 0.6 alleles per locus. Large differences between expected and observed heterozygosity were ubiquitous (0.821 +/- 0.07 and 0.470 +/- 0.17, respectively). Although the estimated null allele frequency caused initial concern (0.284 +/- 0.199), it is likely that it was a reflection of the inbreeding coefficients found (0.432 +/- 0.184). All loci showed significant deviation from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, with heterozygote deficit (P < 0.0001) and genotypic linkage disequilibrium with at least one marker. The high polymorphic information content (0.798 +/- 0.088) could not warrant exclusion power for three loci (HMS7, HMS6 and HTG4) above 50% (0.491 +/- 0.158). However, combined exclusion probability reached 99.61%, a level close to ideal. The results demonstrate the excellent performance of the markers assessed in describing the genetic status of the breed and suggest the considerable ability to establish parentage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M A P Costa
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Zootecnia, Departamento de Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brasil.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Groeneveld LF, Lenstra JA, Eding H, Toro MA, Scherf B, Pilling D, Negrini R, Finlay EK, Jianlin H, Groeneveld E, Weigend S. Genetic diversity in farm animals--a review. Anim Genet 2010; 41 Suppl 1:6-31. [PMID: 20500753 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2052.2010.02038.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 290] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Domestication of livestock species and a long history of migrations, selection and adaptation have created an enormous variety of breeds. Conservation of these genetic resources relies on demographic characterization, recording of production environments and effective data management. In addition, molecular genetic studies allow a comparison of genetic diversity within and across breeds and a reconstruction of the history of breeds and ancestral populations. This has been summarized for cattle, yak, water buffalo, sheep, goats, camelids, pigs, horses, and chickens. Further progress is expected to benefit from advances in molecular technology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L F Groeneveld
- Institute of Farm Animal Genetics, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Hoeltystr. 10, 31535 Neustadt, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Kakoi H, Tozaki T, Nagata S, Gawahara H, Kijima-Suda I. Development of a method for simultaneously genotyping multiple horse coat colour loci and genetic investigation of basic colour variation in Thoroughbred and Misaki horses in Japan. J Anim Breed Genet 2010; 126:425-31. [PMID: 19912416 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0388.2009.00841.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
In order to develop a genotyping method that can be used in the registration procedure for Thoroughbreds, we developed a method for simultaneously genotyping multiple coat colour genes on the basis of single nucleotide polymorphism typing by using the SNaPshot(TM) technique. This method enabled precise and reasonable detection of causal mutations; it was effective for genotyping of MC1R, ASIP, and SLC45A2 at the Extension (E), Agouti (A), Cream dilution (C) loci, and the possibility of identification of rare variants of MC1R, EDNRB and KIT at the E, Overo (O) and Sabino 1 (SB1) loci, respectively, was also indicated. It was considered that this genotyping method would provide information not only for the registration of Thoroughbreds but also for the preservation of phenotypic characters, such as coat colour, of endangered Misaki native horses in Japan. Therefore, genetic variations at the five coat colour loci were investigated in 1111 Thoroughbred and 99 Misaki native horses. Allele frequencies at the polymorphic E and A loci were estimated, and the proportions of basic coat colours that could be expected in the Thoroughbred population were bay, 0.662; black, 0.070; chestnut, 0.268. In the Misaki population, they were bay, 0.792; black, 0.129; chestnut, 0.080. The data presented were the first of its kind on genetic coat colour variation, and will be important with regard to the registration of Thoroughbreds and the management of Misaki horses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H Kakoi
- Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Utsunomiya City, Tochigi, Japan.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
|
34
|
Abstract
Hispano-Breton (HB) is a horse breed with a recent mixed ancestry. It was developed in the 1930s by crossing local mares with Breton draught horses imported from France. Nowadays it is considered to be in a vulnerable situation due to census decline. To genetically characterize the breed and to set up the basis for a conservation programme, we have employed two types of molecular markers: a 347-bp D-loop mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) fragment and 13 microsatellite loci. A representative sample of 53 HB individuals was analysed together with a sample of 40 Pura Raza Española horses for comparison. Both types of markers revealed a high level of genetic diversity in the HB breed, emphasizing the importance of its conservation. The construction of a phylogenetic network with mtDNA sequences including various Iberian breeds and European heavy horses provided an overall picture of the ubiquitous appearance of HB matrilines with respect to other breeds and revealed the singularity of certain HB maternal lineages. Despite the high allelic richness found in HB horses, microsatellite analysis evidenced a certain degree of inbreeding as a consequence of the type of management generally used for local breeds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L M Pérez-Gutiérrez
- Departamento de Genética, Facultad de Biología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | |
Collapse
|