Tuebingen

CAG GmbH – Center for Animal Genetics has signed an agreement with EquiSeq to be the exclusive testing center for their Equine Myopathy Panel in Europe. Horse owners can now test their animals without requiring an invasive blood draw or muscle biopsy.

Equine Myopathy Panel tests for mutations in three genes associated with Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy type 2 (PSSM2) and a mutation in one gene associated with Recurrent Exertional Rhabdomyolysis (RER). These mutations have been detected in affected horses of many breeds, including Quarter Horses, Thoroughbreds, Warmbloods, Arabians, Gaited Horses, Draft Horses, and many pony breeds. Affected horses often do not show symptoms until they have already been used for breeding or have had many years of investment in training.

Using genetic testing, owners and breeders can identify an affected horse prior to breeding or extensive training for sport. Veterinarians and other horse health professionals can make specific diagnoses and management plans. Although the diseases cannot be cured, a horse’s quality of life can be substantially improved with a correct diagnosis and the development of an appropriate management plan.

More information about the disease and tests can be found on the CAG website . Tests can be ordered and paid for through the CAG webstore . Samples sent to CAG will be tested in the in-house accredited laboratory.

“We are very pleased to be able to offer the Equine Myopathy panel to our customers,” said Melissa L. Cox, Ph.D., CAG Scientific Lead. “The diseases collectively known as PSSM2 are difficult to diagnose, because symptoms can vary in severity and age of onset. There are many horses and owners who will benefit from having correct, early diagnoses.”

EquiSeq’s Myopathy Panel, developed by researchers in New Mexico, USA, is the first commercial offering by the company, which is currently researching additional genetic variants affecting horse health and performance.

CAG GmbH is an animal genetics testing and research company specializing in horses, dogs, and cats, located in Tuebingen, Germany. It was founded in 2014 by CeGaT GmbH, a human molecular genetics testing company, and dw Sportpferde, a sport horse breeder. CAG’s research program has also identified new mutations responsible for muscle diseases in dogs.