You can get more information by attending the meeting at Alcock and Brown Hotel, Clifden, 19 August 2014
Introduction
Researchers in the Bannasch Laboratory have identified the
genetic basis of Connemara Pony Hoof Wall Disease. Hoof Wall Disease
(HWD) is characterized by a hoof wall that easily breaks and cracks,
and a normal appearing coronary band. The breaks and cracks begin to
occur in young ponies. In severe cases the pony bears weight entirely
on the sole of the foot which can lead to severe lameness. HWD is
inherited as an autosomal recessive trait. This means that carriers are
completely normal and only animals with two copies of the mutation
will show clinical signs of the disease. HWD appears to occur only in
the Connemara pony and the carrier frequency has been estimated to be
about 14.8%. A DNA test for this specific mutation can determine if
ponies are normal or if they carry one or two copies of the mutation.
Ponies that carry two copies of the mutation are highly likely to be
affected with the disease. Some cases are milder while others are more
severe. We have identified at least one case where the pony does not
appear to have clinical signs associated with having two copies of the
mutation. This indicates that the mutation is not fully penetrant;
however it has very high penetrance of 96.8%.
The VGL offers a DNA test for HWD to assist owners and
breeders in identifying affected and carrier ponies. The test uses DNA
collected from mane hair thus avoiding invasive blood collection.
Breeders can use results from the test as a tool for selection of
mating pairs to avoid producing affected foals.
Allow 2-6 business days for results.
Results reported as:
N/N:
No copies of HWD mutation; animal is normal
N/HWD:
1 copy of HWD mutation; animal is normal but is a carrier
HWD/HWD:
2 copies of HWD mutation; animal is affected
Ponies that have only one mutant copy of HWD (N/HWD) are normal but they are carriers of the disease. UC DavisUC Davis VGL website website
