Unraveling the Genetics Behind Equid Cardiac Disease

Abstract

There have been some advances in understanding the genetic contribution to ventricular septal defects in Arabians, sudden death in racehorses, and atrial fibrillation in racehorses. No genetic analyses have been published for aortic rupture in Friesians or atrioventricular block in donkeys despite strong evidence for a genetic cause. To date, no genetic mutation has been identified for any equid cardiac disease. With the advancement of genetic tools and resources, we are moving closer to discoveries that may explain the heritable basis of inherited equid cardiac disease.

Keywords: Aortic rupture; Atrial fibrillation; Atrioventricular block; Congenital heart disease; Donkey; Horse; Sudden death; Ventricular septal defects.