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Molecular Signatures of Exercise Adaptation in Arabian Racing Horses: Transcriptomic Insights from Blood and Muscle
Monika Stefaniuk-Szmukier1, Tomasz Szmatoła2, Katarzyna Ropka-Molik1
1Department of Animal Molecular Biology, National Research Institute of Animal Production, Krakowska 1, 32-083 Balice, Poland.
Genes
|April 26, 2025
Summary
Seven genes consistently changed in Arabian horses during race training, revealing molecular adaptations for endurance. Muscle and blood analysis suggests potential biomarkers for athletic performance and training monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Equine genetics
- Exercise physiology
- Molecular biology
Background:
- Modern horse breeds are highly specialized athletes due to selective breeding.
- Arabian horses are excellent models for studying exercise adaptations due to their renowned endurance.
- Understanding molecular changes in response to exercise is crucial for equine athletic performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- Identify genes affected by physical exertion in Arabian horses.
- Analyze transcriptomic changes in gluteus medius muscle and whole blood.
- Explore the role of these genes in endurance and metabolic adaptation.
Main Methods:
- RNA sequencing was performed on sixteen Arabian horses.
- Transcriptomic changes were analyzed across three training stages.
- Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified and analyzed.
Main Results:
- Seven genes (RCHY1, PIH1D1, IVD, FABP3, ANKRD2, USP13, CRYAB) were consistently deregulated.
- These genes are involved in muscle remodeling, metabolism, oxidative stress, and protein turnover.
- Transcriptomic overlap between muscle and blood suggests potential systemic biomarkers.
Conclusions:
- Multi-tissue transcriptomic profiling is vital for understanding exercise-induced adaptations.
- Identified genes may serve as molecular markers for training progression and athletic potential.
- Findings contribute to equine sports genetics and may offer insights into human sports performance.
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