12 RACING AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2023 The Equine Genetics Research Centre (EGRC) is performs parentage verification of Thoroughbreds and for 23 other breed associations, alongside testing for 40 different genetic disorders, coat colours and patterns. EQUINE GENETICS RESEARCH CENTRE REPORT The EGRC is an internationally recognised equine genetics testing laboratory which is responsible for parentage verification of all registered Thoroughbreds born in Australia. In the 2022 - 2023 season, we averaged turnaround times of less than a week for our main client, the Australian Stud Book, alongside providing DNA profiling and genetic testing services for 23 nonThoroughbred Stud Books. The services to non-Thoroughbred breed associations included DNA profiling, parentage verification, and testing for DNA mutations that cause genetic diseases or are related to specific coat colours and patterns. The EGRC currently tests for 17 genetic diseases and 23 coat colours and patterns. Standard DNA analysis in horses is usually performed on hair cells, found at the pulled ends of mane or tail hairs. The EGRC also offers DNA testing of non-standard samples including equine blood, semen and muscle. Forensic services include analysis of samples such as blood clots and discarded needles for integrity purposes, and positively identifying stolen horses. In the 2021 breeding season, the EGRC became one of only a few equine genetics laboratories internationally that offer pathogen testing alongside traditional genetic testing. This uses a DNA identification method called PCR to detect the agents that cause disease (pathogens) in horses, just like PCR has been used to identify people infected with coronavirus. In 2022 – 2023, the original pilot study was expanded to include some of the pathogens that commonly cause respiratory symptoms and abortions, alongside the original menu of Klebsiella pneumoniae capsule serotypes 1, 2, and 5, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa as the pre-breeding panel. Internationally, the EGRC has maintained its reputation as a world leader in the field of equine gene doping detection with the Director continuing her position as the Chair of the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities (IFHA) Gene Doping Control Sub-Committee and the International Horse Sports Confederation (IHSC)’s Gene Doping Expert Committee (GDEC). She is also a member of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA’s) Gene and Cell Doping Expert Advisory Group, the IFHA Advisory Council on Prohibited Substances and Practices, and the International Stud Book Genetics Sub-committee. Dr. Natasha Hamilton Equine Genetics Research Centre Director
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