GWAS Identifies a Region Containing the SALL1 Gene in Variation of Pigmentation Intensity Within the Chestnut Coat Color of Horses.

Chestnut coat color in horses is determined by a missense mutation within the MC1R gene. However, the intensity of the chestnut color can vary widely within individuals possessing this genotype. Here, we investigated this variation using standardized photographs of 96 horses.

Needs Assessment: What Are the Barriers to Use of Equine Genetic Testing?

Genetic testing offers precise and accurate data to horse owners concerning their horse's health and offers potential economic value increases of foal crops via genome-assisted selection. Despite availability of at least 96 commercially available markers, fewer than 20 are commonly used. This project seeks to identify the barriers to the incorporation of genomic tools in diverse equine operations.