Harnessing molecular techniques to advance horse health

Molecular techniques have revolutionised horse management and health and have provided practical solutions to complex problems in the various horse disciplines internationally. Molecular-based parentage verification systems were standardised internationally in the 1990s and are now widely applied in most horse breeds. These systems now include tests for genetic diseases and performance traits. More recently, molecular-based tests have been developed and internationally standardised through the World Organisation for Animal Health for certification of horses as free of various high-impact infectious diseases. The diagnostic accuracy and short processing time associated with these techniques has resulted in a significant reduction in quarantine periods required for international movement of horses, thereby facilitating international trade and competitions. Rapid implementation of appropriate molecular diagnostic testing systems has also contributed to increased efficiency in diagnosing and controlling high-impact transboundary horse diseases. This presentation provides an overview of molecular techniques routinely applied in horse health and management, focusing on South African issues, and highlights the benefits to the respective horse disciplines. The presentation further highlights how modern molecular techniques can provide solutions to develop next-generation vaccines for controlling devastating horse diseases.