Ongoing research at the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, led by Dr. Carrie Finno and outgoing director Dr. Alain Theon is currently being run on genetic samples from Connemara ponies. The focus of the research is to isolate the gene (discover gene markers) connected to the development of melanoma in gray horses of all breeds. The Connemara Pony breed was chosen for its high population of gray ponies within a smaller sample-size breed. This makes gathering samples easier as it involves working with owners willing to submit samples.
Gene research has discovered there are extra copies of the gene STX17 in Connemara ponies with melanoma. This is the graying haircoat color gene that is over expressed in equine melanoma cases. The graying hair coat color gene duplicates in the equines exhibiting melanoma.
Information for this article came from a presentation to the American Connemara Pony Society on September 30, 2023 by the UC Davis Equine Melanoma Research team: Dr. Carrie Finno and Dr. Alain Theon. The American Connemara Pony Society has worked with its members to get samples and has generated much interest in helping solve this puzzle for all breeds. In addition, members of the ACPS have contributed time and resources to support the research team.
This article has been provided for information only. Please consult with your veterinarian regarding treatment and detection of equine melanoma in your horse, pony or donkey.
Research Samples Wanted
If you have a gray Connemara pony who exhibits melanoma or who is past the age of 15 and does not exhibit melanoma tumors, samples of the tumor (if present) and a blood sample from the Connemara are needed for the on-going research. Early on-set melanoma in Connemara pones samples are much needed.
Author Sharon J. Jantzen
UC Davis Melanoma Study Update
Ongoing research at the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, led by Dr. Carrie Finno and outgoing director Dr. Alain Theon is currently being run on genetic samples from Connemara ponies. The focus of the research is to isolate the gene (discover gene markers) connected to the development of melanoma in gray horses of all breeds. The Connemara Pony breed was chosen for its high population of gray ponies within a smaller sample-size breed. This makes gathering samples easier as it involves working with owners willing to submit samples.
UC Davis Melanoma Study Update, presented by Dr. Carrie Finno and Dr. Alain Theon
September 29, 2023 at ACPS Annual Meeting – UC Davis Campus
