DNA SEQUENCE : SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

DNA SEQUENCE : SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

NEWS:   Gene that helps race horses manage BP could help human athletes, too

 

WHAT’S IN THE NEWS?

In June, researchers from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences in Uppsala reported discovering a DNA sequence in horses that underlies superior racing performance. The sequence influenced levels of two proteins involved in regulating blood pressure

 

Discovery of DNA Sequence Influencing Horse Racing Performance

  1. Research Background:
    • Researchers from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences identified a DNA sequence influencing horse racing performance.
    • Findings published in PLoS Genetics.
  2. Genomic Insights:
    • DNA sequence affects levels of proteins regulating blood pressure: endothelin1 (EDN1) and endothelin3 (EDN3).
    • Results enhance understanding of cardiovascular health and disease.
  3. Historical Context:
    • North Swedish draught horse, used in Nordic farm work, and hot-blooded standardbred horse were crossbred for racing.
    • Resulted in the creation of cold-blooded trotters, sharing genome segments with both breeds.
  4. Genomic Structure:
    • Horse genome: 32 chromosomes, 3 billion base-pairs, 20,000 genes.
    • Genes consist of coding sequences, promoters, and enhancers regulating gene expression.
  5. Research Findings:
    • Analysis of 400 cold-blooded trotters' DNA linked superior racing performance to a 5,564 base-pair gene sequence.
    • Identified elite (EPH) and sub-elite (SPH) haplotypes affecting exercise-related blood pressure regulation.
  6. Blood Pressure Regulation:
    • EPH haplotype linked to lower blood pressure during/after exercise.
    • Located near EDN3 gene, influencing blood pressure regulation pathways.
  7. Human Correlation:
    • Human equivalent gene located on chromosome 20.
    • Experiment confirmed involvement in blood pressure regulation in human heart tissue.
  8. Conclusion:
    • The study highlights the interplay of genetic traits and athletic performance in both horses and humans.

 Source: https://epaper.thehindu.com/ccidist-ws/th/th_delhi/issues/94002/OPS/GMAD5JGMT.1+GOOD5JJAS.1.html