Genome Research Panel Scheduled For AQHA Convention

The benefits of equine genome research will be explored during a presentation on March 2 at the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) convention in Dallas, Texas. "Genome Research 101 for the Horse Industry" will be held from 8:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m. (CST) at the Hotel Inter-Continental Dallas. It will sponsored by the the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP), AQHA, Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation, and the Morris Animal Foundation.

A genome is the entire genetic makeup of an animal. Equine genome research will allow scientists to genetically map the horse, which will eventually lead to the identification and treatment of equine disease through gene therapy.

The following researchers from across the United States will participate in the panel:
Dr. Doug Antczak--Cornell University.
Dr. Ernie Baily--University of Kentucky.
Dr. Jim Belknap--Auburn University.
Dr. Bhanu Chowdhary--Texas A&M University.
Dr. Jim Murray--University of California-Davis.
Dr. Jim Mickelson--University of Minnesota.
Dr. Loren Skow--Texas A&M University.
Dr. Stephanie Valberg--University of Minnesota.
Dr. Michael Vandenplas--University of Georgia.
Dr. Gene Pranzo--Dorothy Russell Havemeyer Foundation.

In addition to the treatment of disease, the panelists will discuss the process of genome research, the benefit of research to the equine industry, and the costs and facility needs for future research projects.

Future research on equine disease will require investigations at the molecular level including understanding and utilizing gene identification for diagnosis and therapy.