Genetic analysis of the Hungarian draft horse population using partial mitochondrial DNA D-loop sequencing

Area of Science:

• Animal Genetics
• Conservation Biology
• Equine Science

Background:

• The Hungarian draft horse is a breed with mixed ancestry, established in the 1920s.
• There is growing interest in conserving and characterizing this endangered horse population.
• This study aims to provide genetic information for conservation strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To genetically characterize Hungarian draft horse populations.
• To assess genetic diversity using mitochondrial DNA.
• To establish a foundation for a conservation program.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of the mitochondrial DNA D-loop hypervariable region.
• Sequencing of 285 samples and analysis of 419 GenBank sequences.
• Assessment of genetic diversity and population structure.

Main Results:

• 164 haplotypes and 36 polymorphic sites were identified.
• High haplotype and nucleotide diversity were observed within the Hungarian population.
• 14 out of 17 previously identified haplogroups were detected.

Conclusions:

• The Hungarian draft horse displays significant intra- and inter-breed genetic variation.
• The genetic makeup suggests contributions from diverse ancestral backgrounds.
• Findings support the development of breeding and conservation plans to prevent inbreeding.