Characterization of the Sarcidano Horse Coat Color Genes.

Abstract

Simple SummaryCurrently, considerable attention is paid to the conservation of biological diversity, with the aim of saving low-spread populations from extinction. This study aimed to contribute to the general knowledge of the Sarcidano Horse, a small population autochthonous of the Sardinia island. Due to their semi-feral condition, it is assumed that there have been no crossings with domestic breeds. Since it is well known that the variety of coat colors in many current breeds derives from domestication and human selection, a first step towards a deeper knowledge of this breed has focussed on the study of the genetic basis of the coat colors. DNA from 70 Sarcidano horses has been analyzed to characterize MC1R and ASIP genes, responsible for the three basic coat colors: bay, black and chestnut. The results showed a clear prevalence of the chestnut color, a limited number of black and a very small presence of bay coats. Moreover, Sarcidano Horse showed only the basic coat color set, with no color dilution or spotting, which suggests the lack of crossbreeding with other domestic breeds and the state of genetic isolation of this population. Efforts in maintaining healthy this ancient genetic resource, through accurate genetic and phenotypic controls, look of vital importance.The goal of this study was to contribute to the general knowledge of the Sarcidano Horse, both by the identification of the genetic basis of the coat color and by updating the exact locations of the genotyping sites, based on the current EquCab3.0 genome assembly version. One-hundred Sarcidano Horses, living in semi-feral condition, have been captured to perform health and biometric checks. From that total number, 70 individual samples of whole blood were used for DNA extraction, aimed to characterize the genetic basis of the coat color. By genotyping and sequencing analyses of the MC1R Exon 1 and ASIP Exon 3, a real image of the coat color distribution in the studied population has been obtained. Chestnut and Black resulted in the most representative coat colors both from a phenotypic and genotypic point of view, that is suggestive of no human domestication or crossbreeding with domestic breed. Due to its ancient origin and genetic isolation, an active regional plan for the conservation of this breed would be desirable, focused on maintenance of resident genotypes and genetic resources. Collection and management of DNA, sperm, embryos, with the involvement of research centers and Universities, could be a valid enhancing strategy.