We offer testing for established genetic mutations that cause, or are associated with, disorders in many breeds of horse. Testing can confirm whether your horse is afflicted with a genetic disorder. Testing is also the best way to confirm that your horse does not carry a recessive (hidden) disease DNA variant that it could pass onto its offspring. A list of traits that we test for is displayed below, and is continuously updated with newly developed tests.
HERDA
HERDA is a skin disease found primarily in Quarter Horses and their derivatives.
HYPP
HYPP is a muscular disorder that causes muscle spasms and tremors.
OLWFS
OLWFS is a fatal disorder of the digestive system that is associated with a particular white pattern called “frame overo”.
PSSM1
PSSM1 causes muscle crampling and tying up.
GBED
GBED is a disorder that prevents the storage of glycogen in muscles and other tissues, causing late term abortion, stillbirths and death in affected foals.
MH
MH is a muscle disorder that causes an increased rate of metabolic activity usually associated with administration of certain types of anaesthetic gases.
MYHM (IMM)
MYHM (previously called IMM) is a muscle disease found in Quarter Horses.
CA
CA is a neurological disorder that affects coordination and balance.
LFS
LFS is a fatal neurological disorder.
SCID
SCID is a disorder of the immune system.
OAAM
OAAM is a bone defect which causes neurological problems.
HWSD
HWSD is a disease that affects the hoof wall, causing it to easily break and crack.
FFS1
FFS1 is a disorder of the connective tissue which causes hyperextensible joints and skin tearing in affected foals.
SCC
The SCC DNA mutation confers a high risk of squamous cell carcinoma, the most frequently occurring type of ocular cancer in horses.