Genetic structure of Hucul and Anglo-Arabian horses at the Tert locus

The objective of the study was to identify single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genetic markers in the equine TERT gene sequence, which were used to assess the degree of differentiation between Anglo-Arabian and Hucul horses. Polymorphisms were identified by sequencing 30 amplification products representing 18000 bp of TERT sequences. Twenty-seven SNP markers were investigated, which were at genetic equilibrium. Haplotypes and genotypes were determined, and usefulness of polymorphisms for genetic studies was assessed based on minor allele frequency (MAF).

Alleles characteristic of both horse breeds were identified. SNP markers with MAF > 0.18 were

considered suitable for genetic analyses concerning association studies and parentage testing. In

total 26 haplotypes were identified, of which three were common to the investigated horse populations. Twelve haplotypes were found only in Anglo-Arabians and 11 in Hucul horses. Identified

polymorphism of TERT gene might be useful in the search for genetic basis of aging in the Equus

caballus species.