Parentage/Genetic Marker ReportQuick Summary
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A DNA profile of species-specific microsatellite markers is obtained from the offspring, potential dam, and potential sire(s), and parentage analysis is performed using this data. In this process, a computer program compares the DNA profile of the offspring to the profiles of the presumed parents. Candidate sires and dams may either qualify or be excluded as parents based on whether they share microsatellite marker alleles with the offspring. Additionally, a variant in the amelogenin gene (AME) is genotyped to determine sex (reported as YX for males and X for females). A parentage analyst then reviews the results, ensures the sex matches what is expected, and sends the final report. If a listed parent or parents are excluded, or sex does not match what is expected, additional analysis is performed, including retesting of samples and the possible use of additional DNA markers to confirm the exclusion.
You can read more about the process of DNA parentage analysis HERE.
Sample Collection
Horse DNA tests are carried out using cells from the roots of a hair sample (roughly 20-30 hairs).
1. Grab about 10 hairs at the base.
2. Wrap the hairs around your finger and give it a quick pull.
3. Check the ends to make sure the pulled hairs have roots.
4. Repeat the process until you have collected about 20-30 hairs with intact roots.
5. You can choose different places on the mane or tail. NOTE: For foals, we recommend pulling all hairs from the tail only.
6. Tape the hairs to the submission form and fold the form along the dotted line to protect the sample. Do not use ziploc bags as they can cause condensation that allows mold to grow on the hair.
7. Place the folded form containing the sample in a paper envelope and mail it to the laboratory.
In horses, the following markers are reported:
AHT4
AHT5
AME
ASB2
ASB17
ASB23
HMS2
HMS3
HMS6
HMS7
HTG4
HTG10
LEX3
LEX33
VHL20