Genetic Health Testing for Iberian Horses

Iberian breed horses, including the Pura Raza Espanol (PRE), Andalusian, and Lusitano, are renowned for their grace, strength, and historical significance. Originating from the Iberian Peninsula, these breeds are prized for their versatility and beauty. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain genetic health conditions. Understanding these genetic predispositions through DNA testing is crucial for maintaining their health and performance, both as an athlete and as a breeding candidate. Some of the potential genetic health conditions and risks seen in Iberian horses include:

Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy Type 1 (PSSM1)

Some Iberian breed horses may be genetically predisposed to PSSM1, a metabolic muscle disorder. PSSM1 can lead to muscle stiffness and pain due to abnormal glycogen storage in muscle cells. Horses with PSSM1 often have episodes of external rhabdomyolysis, or 'tying-up,' where they are reluctant to move and experience muscle damage after exercise. Horses with one copy of the PSSM gene (PSSM1/n) usually have milder symptoms that can be managed with a low-sugar, low-starch diet and regular exercise. However, horses with two copies of the gene (PSSM1/PSSM1) may have more severe symptoms and can be harder to manage.

Equine Metabolic Syndrome / Laminitis Risk (EMS / LAM)

EMS is a metabolic disorder that can affect horses of any breed, including Iberian horses. EMS is characterized by insulin dysregulation, obesity, and an increased risk of laminitis. Researchers studied horses with severe laminitis caused by EMS and discovered important genetic markers near a gene that might affect how the horses manage cholesterol. Horses with these genetic markers, both hetero- (EMS/n) and homozygous (EMS/EMS), were 9x more likely to develop laminitis secondary to EMS, especially if they were also overweight or obese. This is a genetic health risk, meaning if your horse carries one or two copies of the variant, they are not necessarily destined to develop the disease but it does indicate that they are at a higher risk of developing it.

West Nile Virus Risk (WNVR)

West Nile Virus (WNV) is a potentially severe viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes, and some Iberian horses may have a genetic predisposition for a higher susceptibility to developing severe WNV symptoms. WNV primarily affects the central nervous system, causing symptoms such as fever, ataxia (lack of coordination), and muscle weakness. In severe cases, it can lead to encephalitis, which is an acute inflammation of the brain, or even death. Researchers have identified genetic markers associated with an increased risk of severe WNV symptoms in horses. Horses with one copy of these genetic markers (WNVR/n) may show milder symptoms, which can be managed with supportive care and preventative vaccination. However, horses with two copies of the markers (WNVR/WNVR) may experience more severe symptoms, making it crucial to implement preventive measures, such as vaccination and aggressive mosquito control, to protect these at-risk horses. As with EMS, this test evaluates your horse’s genetic predisposition for having a higher risk of developing severe WNV symptoms but does not test for WNV or mean that your horse will develop the disease.

Understanding the genetic health risks and conditions specific to Iberian horses is essential for their effective management and care, whether you intend to breed them or not. Genetic testing with our comprehensive Health Panel test lets you get to know your Iberian horse down to their DNA and find out if they carry any of these genetic health conditions and many more. By identifying genetic health conditions and risks early, Iberian horse owners can implement preventive management and breeding strategies to ensure their horses lead healthy, happy lives.