Scientists studying equine evolution have assembled the genetic blueprint of a thoroughbred mare. A rough draft of its entire DNA sequence has been made. They wanted to study physiology and dozens of diseases of both horses and human.
At Broad Institute in Massachusetts, the research was done under a senior scientist named Clair Wade. The genome contains sizeable gaps and more analysis is needed. The research team estimated that 2.7 million units of DNA would provide a huge information.
The team of scientists found the following facts:
1. Like humans, the horses suffer from West Nile virus, allergies, and rhinitis.
2. Some suffer from neurological and muscular disorders.
3. Arabian horses inherits a severe form of immunodeficiency. It is commonly known as “bubble boy” disease.
4. Scientists have found 80 genetically linked diseases common to both horses and humans.