Progress 01/15/09 to 07/14/13
Outputs
Target Audience: The target audiences for the extension education and components were veterinarians and horse owners. Extension efforts focused on these audiences with the aim of disseminating research-based information on equine metabolic syndrome (EMS), Shivers, and equine genetics. The number of horse owners participating in annual (2009 through 2012) Extension programs ranged from 50 to 350 and occurred in Minnesota, Kentucky, Texas, and California. Program participants could generally be classified as 80% female horse owners and professionals between the ages of 40 and 60 who own 1-5 horses on less than 10 acres of land. Post-program evaluations showed that half of participants found presented information useful in the management of their horse operation and planned to make one change in their horse operation based on the information. All presentations resulted in an increase of participant knowledge gain. Veterinarians and horse professionals attending the programs ranged from 15 to 35 in number. Each veterinarian and professional managed an average of 300 horses, significantly broadening the reach of the in-person programs in the four states. The number of horse owners and professionals participating in webinars (2009 through 2012) ranged from 25 to 100; however, each webinar was viewed over 150 times once posted online. Webinar participants had similar demographics as those attending an in-person Extension program. Forty-five percent of participants viewing the webinar were from the Midwest, and the other 55% were located throughout the United States. Other target audiences include equine genomics researchers and equine clinician scientists. Information will be disseminated to these target audiences through peer-reviewed scientific publications, and presentations at scientific meetings. Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? As project PI, Dr. Krishona Martinson took advantage of several professional development opportunities including the American Society of Animal Science meetings in Denver, CO and Phoenix Arizona, the eXtension Horse Quest meeting in Louisville, KY, the Equine Science Society Meetings in Murfreesboro, TN, Keystone, CO, and Ruidoso, NM. Extension collaborators included Drs. Bob Coleman, University of Kentucky; Dennis Sigler, Texas A & M; and Janet Roser, University of California – Davis. Extensive professional development and new collaborative efforts were developed with these specialists during the project. Dr. Nichol Schultz, DVM is a PhD candidate at the University of Minnesota. This project was Dr. Schultz’s thesis topic. Dr. Jessica Petersen completed her PhD in population genetics at the University of California at Davis before joining the project in October 2009. Dr. Petersen is the post-doc on this project. An undergraduate student, Liz Roby, was hired 5 hours a week for 3 months (60 hours) to develop and maintain a social media presence on Facebook. Dr. Elaine Norton DVM, DACVIM will continue to work with the data gathered for this project and pursuing next steps as part of her PhD thesis research. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? The goal of our outreach/Extension program was to provide research-based education on equine genetics and metabolic syndrome to horse owners, veterinarians and professionals. Results from this project have been disseminated extensively, including four in-person Extension programs for horse owners and professionals in four different states, and via three online learning lesson, six webinars, three podcasts, two websites and one Facebook page. All webinars, podcasts, and learning lessons are available “24/7” at no charge. Individual program evaluation results have been reported previously and showed that half of participants found information useful in the management of their horse operation and planned to make one change in their horse operation. All Extension and outreach activities resulted in an increase of participant knowledge gain. Scientifically, research results have been presented at four scientific meetings with abstracts published in peer-reviewed journals and proceedings. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?
Nothing Reported
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
One of the overarching ideas in this proposal was to develop an infrastructure necessary to recruit samples for equine genetic studies, by educating horse owners, breeders, and practicing veterinarians, and facilitating participation using online tools. This approach has proved to be very successful. A network of researchers, veterinarians, and Extension specialists has been developed and is a key component to the success of this project and future projects. This network has extended far beyond the initial Universities involved in the proposal, to include participation by individuals from Virginia Tech, University of Connecticut, University of Vermont, The Miner Institute, Oklahoma State, and North Dakota State being involved in sample collection and recruiting of larger farms to participate in the study. Further, we have been able to leverage this network for projects beyond this proposal. For example, we have been able to phenotype and collect samples from over 330 gray Quarter Horses as a part of a project to decipher the genetics underlying melanoma risk in gray horses (M. McCue, PI). In an effort to foster horse owner and veterinarian participation in research, an online, sample collection infrastructure including websites and online surveys were developed for both Equine Metabolic Syndrome (http://www.cvm.umn.edu/equinegenetics/ems/home.html) and Shivers (http://www.cvm.umn.edu/umec/shivers/home.html), with the aim of providing research-based information on EMS, Shivers, and equine genome research to horse owners, professionals, and veterinarians. This has also proved to be a successful effort and one that will be duplicated for other projects. Scientific Objective 1. We have collected and analyzed phenotypic and environmental data from 634 horses from 167 different farms; 166 horses had a previous history of laminitis and 164 horses were considered obese with a body condition score ≥7. Samples for biochemical measurements were taken before and after an oral sugar test (OST). Using multivariate, multilevel analysis, differences in measurements between clinical groups (obese and laminitis, non-obese and laminitis, obese no laminitis, non-obese no laminitis), breed, gender, age and other individual level factor, as well as environmental factors (diet, exercise, management practices) were determined. In the models, each individual horse had up to 11 outcomes (NH=neck circumference to height ratio, GH=girth to height ratio, GLU=fasting glucose, INS=fasting insulin, GLU OST=glucose following oral sugar test, INS OST=insulin following oral sugar test, TG=triglycerides, NEFA=non-esterified fatty acids, ACTH=adrenocortiocotropin hormone, LEP=leptin, APN=adiponectin). Explanatory variables were defined by multiplying these variables by individual and environment related factors. These interactions enable us to examine whether the explanatory variables were differentially associated with each metabolic trait. Analyses were performed using ASREML-R statistical software. We performed four separate multivariate, multilevel models. Model 1 (null model) contained no explanatory variables in order to examine the individual and farm level variances and covariances of metabolic traits. Model 2 (full model) contained all individual and environmental explanatory variables. Model 3 was the same as model 2 except with exclusion of clinical group status as an explanatory variable and model 4 was the same as model 2 except with exclusion of dietary explanatory variables in order to study how much of the variation and co-variation in metabolic traits was accounted for by these factors. We have identified numerous factors beyond obesity and prior laminitis status that contribute to variation in metabolic traits, including seasonal effects, breed, age, sex, diet, and exercise factors. With this modeling approach, we were able to explain a moderate amount of variation in metabolic traits; however, additional unaccounted for sources of farm and individual level variance may exist. It is likely that individual genetic differences exist which contribute to metabolic trait variation at the individual level and the detection of breed differences support this hypothesis. Further, horses residing on the same farm tend to be metabolically more similar to each other than to horses from a different farm, which suggests that additional unmeasured environmental factors may be contributing to farm level differences. Our findings provide an explanation for the discrepancy in conclusions drawn from previous studies regarding the EMS phenotype. However, our findings also draw attention to difficulty in determining appropriate reference ranges for EMS diagnostic criteria in the presence of multiple sources of “normal” metabolic variation. Our results confirm that dysregulation of insulin and lipid dynamics is a central feature of the EMS phenotype, however there are breed differences in the extent of variation of these traits. Scientific Objective 2. 286 DNA samples from the Morgan horse cohort were used for genome wide association analysis (GWAS). A multivariate linear mixed model analysis was performed to estimate fixed mean effects of single nucleotide polymorphic markers (adjusted for age and sex) on correlated metabolic traits while accounting for random effects of similar polygenic background, shared environment, and correlation of metabolic trait measurements within an individual. ASREML software was used to estimate variance components and fixed effects. Significance tests of fixed effects were determined by performing a WALD test of the restricted maximum likelihood estimate against the normal distribution. SNP effect p-values for individual traits were combined using the Fisher method to determine a global p-value for all traits. This model was further extended to allow for heterogeneous error variance. GWAS has indentified multiple regions on the genome that have statistically significant association with measured phenotypic traits including insulin, insulin responses post oral challenge, fasting triglyceride concentrations and adiponectin concentrations. Scientific Objective 3. Whole genome sequencing was performed (100 bp, paired end reads) at 6x (12 horses) or 12x (6 horses). Over > 20 million high quality sequence variants have been identified across these 18 individuals and annotation of variants with putative functional effects have identified alleles for genotyping in the 634 horse cohort. Scientific objective 4. An online survey and database has also been created for collection of data on suspect cases of shivers. Information gathered included contact details and location, closed ended questions for signalment (breed, date of birth, height, gender, body condition) as well as specific clinical signs, precipitating factors, diet and management. Questionnaires were completed for 305 horses and 50 videos were received. Based on the case definition, 157 horses were diagnosed with Shivers with 27 Confirmed Shivers, 67 Suspected Shivers and 63 had forward hyper-flexion. The majority of excluded horses (including 31 with submitted videos) showed an array of other gait abnormalities or difficulties solely involving holding up a limb. 2 manuscripts describing these data are in preparation.
Publications
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2013
Citation:
Schultz, N.E., M.E. McCue, K.L. Martinson and R.J. Geor. 2013. Impact of dietary components on phenotypic measurements for Equine Metabolic Syndrome. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science. 33; pg. 335.
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2013
Citation:
Martinson, K.L, R.J. Coleman, A.K. Rendahl, and M.E. McCue. 2013. The over-conditioned horse: incidence and educational opportunities. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science. 33; pgs. 366-367.
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2012
Citation:
Martinson, K., R. Coleman, J. Earing, A. Rendahl, and M. McCue. 2012. Estimation of ideal body weight in horses and ponies using morphometric measurements. J. of Anim. Sci. Vol. 90, Suppl. 3; pg. 413.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2012
Citation:
Schultz, N.E., McCue, M.E., Martinson, K., Frank, N., and Geor R.J. 2012. Characterization of the Equine Metabolic Syndrome Phenotype Part I: Biochemistry, Morphometrics and Breed Comparisons. In Proceedings: 2012 American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine Forum. Pg. 255. New Orleans, Louisiana
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2012
Citation:
Schultz, N.E., McCue, M.E., Martinson, K., Frank, N., Geor R.J. 2012. Characterization of the Equine Metabolic Syndrome Phenotype Part II: Impact of Dietary Components on Phenotypic Measurements. In Proceedings: 2012 American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine Forum. Pg. 256. New Orleans, Louisiana
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2011
Citation:
Phenotypic Characterization of Equine Metabolic Syndrome Nichol Schultz, Molly McCue, Nicholas Frank, Raymond Geor. Invited presentation at The 2011 International Equine Conference on Laminitis and Diseases of the Foot, October 2011, West Palm Beach, FL
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Submitted
Year Published:
2013
Citation:
Martinson, K.L., R.C. Coleman, A.K. Rendahl, Z. Fang, and M.E. McCue. Estimation of body weight and development of a body weight score for adult equines using morphometric measurements. Submitted to the Journal of Animal Science.
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Progress 01/15/12 to 01/14/13
Outputs
OUTPUTS: This program seeks to develop an integrated national framework of educators, veterinarians and owners critical to the success of equine genome research, and demonstrate its utility in the study of two genetically-influenced disorders, Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) and Shivers. Major efforts to date have focused on 1) outreach and extension activities, 2) increasing horse owner awareness and involvement in the research program, and 3) collection of samples and phenotyping for EMS. In an effort to foster horse owner and veterinarian participation in research, an online, sample collection infrastructure including websites and online surveys were developed for both Equine Metabolic Syndrome (http://www.cvm.umn.edu/equinegenetics/ems/home.html) and Shivers (http://www.cvm.umn.edu/umec/shivers/home.html), with the aim of providing research-based information on EMS, Shivers, and equine genome research to horse owners and veterinarians. Two online epidemiologic surveys were designed for EMS sample collection, an initial screening survey and a second survey for collection of detailed phenotypic information, both supported by an online database. In addition to the morphometric and biochemical phenotyping outlined in the proposal, we included an optional oral sugar test to better assess each horse's insulin secretion and sensitivity. We also received additional funding to analyze the complete dietary profile of each horse in the study. We met our goal of collecting samples from over 600 horses and the focus of year four has been analysis of phenotypic data and performing whole genome association analysis. In 2012, the Extension component of the grant, aimed at providing research-based education on equine genetics and metabolic syndrome to horse owners, veterinarians and professionals, consisted of developing an online learning lesson, two webinars, one podcasts, and in-person Extension programs for horse owners and veterinarians. All online and archived products are available at no charge. Finally, two Extension and outreach programs (one for veterinarians and one for horse owners) were developed and delivered at the University of Kentucky on January 21st and 22nd 2011. The online learning lesson, "Equine Shivers" is available online through eXtension HorseQuest at http://www.extension.org/pages/32893/horsequest-learning-lesson:-equi ne-shivers. The webinars are archived online at www.extension.umn.edu/horse/components/webinar.htm. The podcast is archived at www.extension.umn.edu/horse/components/Podcasts.htm. PARTICIPANTS: Research collaborators include Drs. Molly McCue, Krishona Martinson, Jim Mickelson, Stephanie Valberg, University of Minnesota; Ray Geor, Michigan State University, and Nick Frank, University of Tennessee. As project PI, Dr. Martinson took advantage of one professional develop opportunity and attended and presented at the American Society of Animal Science meetings in Phoenix, AZ. Extension collaborators include Drs. Bob Coleman, University of Kentucky; Dennis Sigler, Texas A & M; and Janet Roser, University of California - Davis. The project advisory committee meets twice annually (via conference call) with the research and extension team and includes Erica Richard, Morgan Horse Association, Registrar; Ernest Bailey, PhD, University of Kentucky & Gluck Equine Research Center; John D. Baird, BVSc, PhD, University of Guelph; Tom R. Lenz, DVM, MS, Pfizer Animal Health and AQHA Research Committee; Don R. Topliff, PhD, West Texas A&M University; and Ruth Wilburn, DVM, Welsh Pony & Cob Society of America - President. Dr. Nichol Schultz is a veterinarian with six years of equine clinical practice experience and is the Pfizer Animal Health-Morris Animal Foundation Post-doctoral Fellow at the University of Minnesota pursuing her PhD degree on this project. This is Dr. Schultz's thesis project. She has mastered disease pathophysiology, epidemiologic experimental design, survey design. She has spent a large amount of time learning statistical genetics/genetic epidemiology and will apply the skills to genome wide association portion of the study. She has also mastered basic molecular biology techniques PCR, sequencing RFLP etc. She has done candidate gene sequencing and discovered genetic variants that affect the insulin response to oral glucose challenge (see above). Dr. Jessica Petersen completed her PhD in population genetics at the University of California at Davis before joining the project in October 2009. Dr. Petersen is the post-doc on this project. Dr. Petersen's work on this project has focused on segregation analysis and also the identification of genomic regions under selection in metabolically thrifty breeds (including those targeted in the phenotyping portion of this proposal). Dr. Petersen's work has identified candidate genes in the incretin response. TARGET AUDIENCES: The target audiences for this research project include veterinarians and horse owners. Extension efforts focused on these audiences with the aim of disseminating research-based information on equine metabolic syndrome (EMS), Shivers, and equine genetics. One of the overarching ideas in this proposal was to develop the infrastructure necessary to recruit samples for equine genetic studies, by educating horse owners, breeders, and practicing veterinarians, and facilitating participation using online tools. Thus far, this approach has been very successful, with the network of researchers, veterinarians, and Extension specialists being a key component to our success. This network has extended far beyond the initial Universities involved in the proposal, to include participation by individuals from Virginia Tech, University of Connecticut, University of Vermont, The Miner Institute, Oklahoma State, and North Dakota State being involved in sample collection and recruiting of larger farms to participate in the study. Further, we have been able to leverage this network for projects beyond this proposal, for example, we have been able to phenotype and collect samples from over 330 gray Quarter Horses as a part of a project to decipher the genetics underlying melanoma risk in gray horses (M. McCue, PI). Additionally, equations for estimated body weight, ideal body weight, and likelihood of obesity have been developed for stock horses, ponies, and Arabians based on data collected by this research team. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not relevant to this project.
Impacts
We have analyzed data from 634 horses; 166 horses had a previous history of laminitis and 164 horses were considered obese with a body condition score ≥7. Morphometric measurements of regional adiposity were greater in horses with a history of laminitis, however this measurement varied significantly across breeds for non-obese horses without a history of laminitis, and therefore has limited diagnostic utility unless breed specific cutoff points were determined. Samples for biochemical measurements were taken before and after an oral sugar test (OST). Differences in measurements between clinical groups and breeds were determined. Insulin (both fasting and following an oral sugar challenge) and triglyceride levels were found to be significantly higher with obesity or prior laminitis status. Horses with a history of laminitis had significantly higher insulin levels regardless of their obesity status. Variances of insulin levels were greater in horses with a history of laminitis. Breed differences were identified for biochemical traits in horses with a history of laminitis and may indicate existence of genetic factors underlying biochemical trait variation. For example, the QH breed was determined to have lower fasting and post oral sugar challenge insulin levels, in addition to lower triglyceride levels. Welsh ponies, on the other hand, were found to have higher triglyceride levels while the Morgan breed had lower triglyceride levels. Thus, our results confirm that dysregulation of insulin and lipid dynamics is a central feature of the EMS phenotype, however there are breed differences in the extent of variation of these traits. Genome-wide association analysis has identified loci associated with variation in measurements of adiposity, insulin dynamics, and lipids. DNA from 18 horses has been submitted for generation of whole genome sequence data to facilitate identification of putative functional alleles in candidate genes determined from the whole genome association analysis. An online survey and database has also been created for collection of data on suspect cases of shivers (Objective 4). To date, 184 Shivers surveys have been submitted from horses of 20 different breeds. Geldings are over-represented in the dataset (153 geldings, 27 mares, 4 stallions). Scoring of video submissions in on-going, with 23 cases of Shivers confirmed to date. In 2012, 350 horse owners, veterinarians and equine professionals attended the in-person Extension program in Davis, CA. An online evaluation will be sent to participants by April 1, 2013 to determine program outcomes and educational impacts.
Publications
- Martinson, K., R. Coleman, J. Earing, A. Rendahl, and M. McCue. 2012. Estimation of ideal body weight in horses and ponies using morphometric measurements. J. of Anim. Sci. Vol. 90, Suppl. 3; pg. 413.
- Schultz, N.E., McCue, M.E., Martinson, K., Frank, N., and Geor R.J. 2012. Characterization of the Equine Metabolic Syndrome Phenotype Part I: Biochemistry, Morphometrics and Breed Comparisons. In Proceedings: 01/01/2012 American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine Forum. Pg. 255. New Orleans, Louisiana.
- Schultz, N.E., McCue, M.E., Martinson, K., Frank, N., Geor R.J. 2012. Characterization of the Equine Metabolic Syndrome Phenotype Part II: Impact of Dietary Components on Phenotypic Measurements. In Proceedings: 01/01/2012 American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine Forum. Pg. 256. New Orleans, Louisiana.
- Schultz, N.E., McCue, M.E., Martinson, K., Geor R.J. 2012. The online learning lesson, Equine Metabolic Syndrome is available online at www.extension.org/pages/62746/horsequest-learning-lesson:-equine-meta bolic-syndrome.
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Progress 01/15/11 to 01/14/12
Outputs
OUTPUTS: This program seeks to develop an integrated national framework of educators, veterinarians and owners critical to the success of equine genome research, and demonstrate its utility in the study of two genetically-influenced disorders, Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) and Shivers. Major efforts to date have focused on 1) outreach and extension activities, 2) increasing horse owner awareness and involvement in the research program, and 3) collection of samples and phenotyping for EMS. In an effort to foster horse owner and veterinarian participation in research, an online, sample collection infrastructure including websites and online surveys were developed for both Equine Metabolic Syndrome (http://www.cvm.umn.edu/equinegenetics/ems/home.html) and Shivers (http://www.cvm.umn.edu/umec/shivers/home.html), with the aim of providing research-based information on EMS, Shivers, and equine genome research to horse owners and veterinarians. Two online epidemiologic surveys were designed for EMS sample collection, an initial screening survey and a second survey for collection of detailed phenotypic information, both supported by an online database. The major emphasis in year three has been data collection. To date we have collected over 1,200 initial surveys and 600 second surveys. Based on survey submissions, EMS cases and EMS controls are selected for sample submission and complete phenotyping. We currently have samples from over 450 horses, and have plans in place to reach our sample collection goal of 600 horses in early 2012. In addition to the morphometric and biochemical phenotyping outlined in the proposal, we are including an optional oral sugar test to better assess each horse's insulin secretion and sensitivity. We have also received additional funding to analyzing the complete dietary profile of each horse in the study. Along with blood samples for biochemical testing, horse owners/DVMs submit are submitting hay, pasture and grain samples. Total daily consumption of digestible energy, protein, fiber, non-structural carbohydrates, water soluble carbohydrate (WSC), ethanol soluble carbohydrates (ESC), starch, and estimated fructan (WSC-ESC) will be calculated. In 2011, the Extension component of the grant, aimed at providing research-based education on equine genetics and metabolic syndrome to horse owners, veterinarians and professionals, consisted of developing an online learning lesson, two webinars, one podcasts, and in-person Extension programs for horse owners and veterinarians. All online and archived products are available at no charge. Finally, two Extension and outreach programs (one for veterinarians and one for horse owners) were developed and delivered at the University of Kentucky on January 21st and 22nd 2011. The online learning lesson, "Equine Shivers" is available online though eXtension HorseQuest at http://www.extension.org/pages/32893/horsequest-learning-lesson:-equi ne-shivers. The webinars are archived online at www.extension.umn.edu/horse/components/webinar.htm. The podcast is archived at www.extension.umn.edu/horse/components/Podcasts.htm. PARTICIPANTS: Research collaborators include Drs. Molly McCue, Krishona Martinson, Jim Mickelson, Stephanie Valberg, University of Minnesota; Ray Geor, Michigan State University, and Nick Frank, University of Tennessee. As project PI, Dr. Martinson took advantage of two professional develop opportunities and attended and presented at the American Society of Animal Science meetings in Denver, CO and the Equine Science Society Meetings in Murfreesboro, TN. Extension collaborators include Drs. Bob Coleman, University of Kentucky; Dennis Sigler, Texas A & M; and Janet Roser, University of California - Davis. The project advisory committee meets twice annually (via conference call) with the research and extension team and includes Erica Richard, Morgan Horse Association, Registrar; Ernest Bailey, PhD, University of Kentucky & Gluck Equine Research Center; John D. Baird, BVSc, PhD, University of Guelph; Tom R. Lenz, DVM, MS, Pfizer Animal Health and AQHA Research Committee; Don R. Topliff, PhD, West Texas A&M University; and Ruth Wilburn, DVM, Welsh Pony & Cob Society of America - President. Dr. Nichol Schultz is a veterinarian with six years of equine clinical practice experience and is the Pfizer Animal Health-Morris Animal Foundation Post-doctoral Fellow at the University of Minnesota pursuing her PhD degree on this project. This is Dr. Schultz's thesis project. She has mastered disease pathophysiology, epidemiologic experimental design, survey design. She has spent a large amount of time learning statistical genetics/genetic epidemiology and will apply the skills to genome wide association portion of the study. She has also mastered basic molecular biology techniques PCR, sequencing RFLP etc. She has done candidate gene sequencing and discovered genetic variants that affect the insulin response to oral glucose challenge (see above). Dr. Jessica Petersen completed her PhD in population genetics at the University of California at Davis before joining the project in October 2009. Dr. Petersen is the post-doc on this project. Dr. Petersen's work on this project has focused on segregation analysis and also the identification of genomic regions under selection in metabolically thrifty breeds (including those targeted in the phenotyping portion of this proposal). Dr. Petersen's work has identified candidate genes in the incretin response. TARGET AUDIENCES: The target audiences for this research project include veterinarians and horse owners. Extension efforts focused on these audiences with the aim of disseminating research-based information on equine metabolic syndrome (EMS), Shivers, and equine genetics. Post-program evaluations of in-person Extension programs showed a majority of participants (63%) owned 11 or more horses, were in their forty's, and were equally split between males and females. Half of Shivers webinar participants owned 1-5 horses, while the other half owned 11 or more horses; 100% owned either 1-5 acres (50%) or 11 or more (50%) acres of pasture; 75% were in their 40's; 75% were female; and 50% identified themselves as horse owners. One of the overarching ideas in this proposal was to develop the infrastructure necessary to recruit samples for equine genetic studies, by educating horse owners, breeders, and practicing veterinarians, and facilitating participation using online tools. Thus far, this approach has been very successful, with the network of researchers, veterinarians, and Extension specialists being a key component to our success. This network has extended far beyond the initial Universities involved in the proposal, to include participation by individuals from Virginia Tech, University of Connecticut, University of Vermont, The Miner Institute, Oklahoma State, and North Dakota State being involved in sample collection and recruiting of larger farms to participate in the study. Further, we have been able to leverage this network for projects beyond this proposal, for example, we have been able to phenotype and collect samples form over 330 gray Quarter Horses as a part of a project to decipher the genetics underlying melanoma risk in gray horses (M. McCue, PI). PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not relevant to this project.
Impacts
To date we have analyzed data from 386 horses; 181 EMS suspects (132 EMS suspects with a previous history of laminitis (EML-L, and 49 EMS without a history of laminitis, EMS-NL) and 205 controls. Horses classified as EMS suspects had generalized or regional adiposity; were considered "easy keepers" by owners, and were defined as EMS suspects by a referring DVM. Samples for biochemical measurements were taken before and after an oral sugar test (OST). Differences in measurements between clinical groups and breeds were determined. Baseline glucose concentrations were not significantly different between groups. Post-OST glucose values were significantly higher in EMS-L horses, but not EMS-NL horses when compared to controls. Baseline insulin and post-OST insulin were significantly higher in EMS-NL and EMS-L horses compared to controls. Triglyceride but not NEFA concentrations were significantly higher in EMS-NL and EMS-L horses. Breed differences were detected in girth- and neck-to-height ratios, baseline insulin, post-OST glucose and insulin, triglyceride and NEFA concentrations. Across breeds, baseline insulin, insulin-OST and triglycerides were good predictors of EMS status, although breed differences in these measurements suggest that breed-specific cut-off values may improve diagnostic accuracy. Thus, our results confirm that dysregulation of insulin dynamics is a central feature of the EMS phenotype across horse breeds. Further, the size and across-breed nature of this sampling cohort should clarify uncertainties arising from phenotypic variability in previous studies and lead to improved diagnostic criteria for EMS. The inclusion of the oral sugar test has been critical to the diagnosis of dysregulation of insulin homeostasis, particularity in horses that have not yet experienced laminitis. We anticipate that the data from this proposal will demonstrate the importance of a challenge test in diagnosis EMS. An online survey and database has also been created for collection of data on suspect cases of shivers (Objective 4). To date, 184 Shivers surveys have been submitted from horses of 20 different breeds. Geldings are over-represented in the dataset (153 geldings, 27 mares, 4 stallions). Scoring of video submissions in on-going, with 23 cases of Shivers confirmed to date. Extension in-person post-program evaluations (n=66) found that 80% of participants found the information presented on equine genetics useful, and 35% plan to make a change in their operation. Participants indicated a 153% increase in knowledge gain on the subject of equine genetics. Ninety-five percent of participants found the information presented on EMS useful, and 68% plan to make a change in their operation. Participants indicated a 138% increase in knowledge gain on the subject of EMS. Thirty-three people attended the Advances in Equine Genetics webinar and 45 additional people viewed the webinar once posted online during the summer and fall 2011. One hundred percent were either very satisfied or satisfied with the webinar. Forty-seven people attended the webinar on EMS in Ponies and 26 additional people have viewed the webinar since fall 2011.
Publications
- Phenotypic Characterization of Equine Metabolic Syndrome. Nichol Schultz, Molly McCue, Nicholas Frank, Raymond Geor. Invited presentation at The 2011 International Equine Conference on Laminitis and Diseases of the Foot, October 2011, West Palm Beach, FL
- The online learning lesson, Equine Shivers is available online at http://www.extension.org/pages/32893/horsequest-learning-lesson:-equi ne-shivers. 2011.
- The webinars, Advances in Equine Genetics and Equine Metabolic Syndrome in Ponies are available online at www.extension.umn.edu/horse/components/webinar.htm. 2011.
- The podcast, Advances in Equine Genetics is available online at www.extension.umn.edu/horse/components/Podcasts.htm. 2011.
- American Association of Equine Practitioners Kester News Hour Top Medical Studies of 2010. The Horse February 16 2011, Article No. 17777 (cites Equine Metabolic Syndrome epidemiologic and genetic study).
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Progress 01/15/10 to 01/14/11
Outputs
OUTPUTS: This program seeks to develop an integrated national framework of educators, veterinarians and owners critical to the success of equine genome research, and demonstrate its utility in the study of two genetically-influenced disorders, Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) and Shivers. Major effort during year two of funding has focused on 1) outreach and extension activities, 2) increasing horse owner awareness and involvement in the research programs. These programs also served as a method to foster horse owner and veterinarian participation in the online database system. During year one, a sample collection infrastructure including a website and two online epidemiologic surveys were designed (http://www.cvm.umn.edu/equinegenetics/ems/home.html) with the aim of providing research-based information on EMS, Shivers, and equine genome research to horse owners and veterinarians. An initial screening survey and a second survey for collection of detailed phenotypic information, both supported by an online database have been put into use and the major emphasis in year two has been data collection. To date we have collected over 500 initial surveys and 170 second surveys. Based on survey submissions, an initial subset of candidates for sample collection has been identified. We currently have samples from 180 horses. We have received additional funding to expand the phenotyping of horses participating in the study. We are analyzing the complete dietary profile of each horse in the study by having horse owners submit feed samples. Total daily consumption of digestible energy, protein, fiber, non-structural carbohydrates, water soluble carbohydrate (WSC), ethanol soluble carbohydrates (ESC), starch, and estimated fructan (WSC-ESC) will be calculated. We are including an optional oral sugar test to better assess each horse's insulin secretion and sensitivity. The Extension component of the grant, aimed at providing research-based education on equine genetics and metabolic syndrome to horse owners, veterinarians and professionals, consisted of developing an online learning lesson, two webinars, two podcasts, and in-person Extension programs for horse owners and veterinarians. The online learning lesson, Equine Genetics: An Important Diagnostic Tool is available online though eXtension HorseQuest. Two webinars were developed and delivered through My Horse University, including Shivers and Other Muscular Diseases and Equine Metabolic Syndrome. The webinars are archived online. Two podcast titled Equine Metabolic Syndrome and Shivers were developed and delivered via Minnesota Public Radio and are archived online. All online and archived products are available at no charge. Finally, three Extension and outreach programs (one for veterinarians, horse owners, and mare and foal owners each) were developed and delivered at Texas A & M University in February 2010. To encourage additional survey and project participation by veterinarians and horse owners, a Facebook page, Equine Metabolic Syndrome Research has been developed. PARTICIPANTS: Research collaborators include Drs. Molly McCue, Krishona Martinson, Jim Mickelson, Stephanie Valberg, University of Minnesota; Ray Geor, Michigan State University, and Nick Frank, University of Tennessee. As project PI, Dr. Martinson took advantage of two professional develop opportunities and attended and presented at the American Society of Animal Science meetings in Denver, CO and the eXtension Horse Quest meeting in Louisville, KY. Extension collaborators include Drs. Bob Coleman, University of Kentucky; Dennis Sigler, Texas A & M; and Janet Roser, University of California - Davis. The project advisory committee meets twice annually with the research and extension team and includes Erica Richard, Morgan Horse Association, Registrar; Ernest Bailey, PhD, University of Kentucky & Gluck Equine Research Center; John D. Baird, BVSc, PhD, University of Guelph; Tom R. Lenz, DVM, MS, Pfizer Animal Health and AQHA Research Committee; Don R. Topliff, PhD, West Texas A&M University; and Ruth Wilburn, DVM, Welsh Pony & Cob Society of America - President Dr. Nichol Schultz is a veterinarian with six years of equine clinical practice experience and is the Pfizer Animal Health-Morris Animal Foundation Post-doctoral Fellow at the University of Minnesota pursuing her PhD degree on this project. Dr. Jessica Petersen completed her PhD in population genetics at the University of California at Davis before joining the project in October 2009. Dr. Petersen is the post-doc on this project. An undergraduate student, Liz Roby, was hired 5 hours a week for 3 months (60 hours) to develop and maintain a social media presence on Facebook and Twitter. Ms. Roby is an animal science major interested in business management and mass communications. Ms. Roby had limited experience and knowledge of horses and research prior to this project, but indicated her interests in both were peaked through this part-time internship. All animal science majors are required to have an internship experience during their undergraduate career, and this project assisted Ms. Roby in partially meeting this requirement. TARGET AUDIENCES: The target audiences for this research project include veterinarians and horse owners. Extension efforts focused on these audiences with the aim of disseminating research-based information on equine metabolic syndrome (EMS), Shivers, and equine genetics. Post-program evaluations of in-person Extension programs showed participants owned a total of 345 horses and managed an additional 910 horses on 8,208 acres of pasture. The dominate horse breed owned was American quarter horses and 38% owned horses for pleasure. A majority of Shivers webinar participants (50%) owned 1-5 horses; 67% owned 10 or fewer acres of pasture; 70% were in their 50's; 100% were female; and 50% identified themselves as horse owners. A majority (78%) of EMS webinar participants owned 1-5 horses; 1-5 acres of pasture (56%); were between the ages of 30 and 60 (89%); were female (87%) and identified themselves as horse owners (78%). Program participants can be generally classified as female horse owners between the ages of 40 and 60 who own 1-5 horses on less than 10 acres of land. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
Over 500 initial online survey responses have yielded an improved understanding of the metabolic phenotype in terms of breed prevalence and phenotypic similarities and differences among breeds. The Morgan horse breed has thus far been reported the most frequently. Based on preliminary data, the Morgan horse population has been chosen as the most suitable breed for genotyping and mapping. A sex difference was not present for horses reported to have experienced laminitis or for horses reported to have a cresty neck (regional adiposity). More females, however, were reported as being "easy keepers" or overweight (Chi square p-value <0.01). A breed difference did not exist for average age of equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) onset (mean 14 years). The proportion of horses considered to be easy keepers, overweight, or to exhibit a cresty neck did not differ significantly among breeds. The proportion of horses reported to have experience laminitis did differ significantly by breed. Over 170 second survey responses and samples from 180 horses have been submitted. The reported average age of onset of laminitis was 10.5 years of age with 55% of cases reported as being related to grazing. Significant differences among EMS suspects and controls have been observed for measures of obesity (body condition score) and regional adiposity (neck circumference to height ratio) with p values <0.0001. Samples from 96 horses have been analyzed for resting insulin and glucose levels and samples from 82 horses have been analyzed for oral sugar test insulin levels. Resting insulin levels did not differ significantly between EMS suspects and controls. However, horses with a history of laminitis had significantly higher insulin concentrations following an oral sugar challenge than horses without a history of laminitis. Extension in-person post-program evaluations (n=70) found that 87% of participants found the information presented on equine genetics useful, and 78% plan to make a change in their operation. Participants indicated a 131% increase in knowledge gain on the subject of equine genetics. One hundred percent of participants were very satisfied or satisfied with the program. Forty-seven people attended the Shivers webinar and 106 additional people viewed the webinar once posted online during 2010. Forth percent of participants indicated they knew very little prior to the webinar. After the webinar, 60% indicated they knew much. Eighty percent of participants found the information presented useful and 10% plan to make a change in their operation. One hundred percent were either very satisfied or satisfied with the webinar. Seventy-seven people attended the EMS webinar and 104 additional people viewed the webinar once posted online during 2010. Ninety percent of webinar participants indicated they knew very little to some prior to the webinar, and 78% indicated they knew much to very much after. Sixty-seven percent of participants found the information presented useful and 55% plan to make a change in their operation. One hundred percent were either very satisfied or satisfied with the webinar.
Publications
- McCue, M. 2010. The online learning lesson, Equine Genetics: An Important Diagnostic Tool is available online at www.extension.org/pages/HorseQuest_Learning_Lesson:_Equine_Genetics:_ An_Important_Diagnostic_Tool.
- Valberg, S. and Geor, R. 2010. The webinars, Shivers and Other Muscular Diseases and Equine Metabolic Syndrome are available online at www.extension.umn.edu/horse/components/webinar.htm.
- Valberg, S. and Frank, N. 2010. The podcast, Equine Metabolic Syndrome and Shivers are available online at www.extension.umn.edu/horse/components/Podcasts.htm.
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Progress 01/15/09 to 01/14/10
Outputs
OUTPUTS: This program seeks to develop an integrated national framework of educators, veterinarians and owners critical to the success of equine genome research, and demonstrate its utility in the study of two genetically-influenced disorders, Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) and Shivers. Major effort during year one of funding has focused on 1) outreach and extension activities, 2) development of samples collection infrastructure and 3) segregation analysis. On October 2nd and 3rd, in-person Extension and outreach programs were delivered to veterinarians and horse owners in order to disseminate research-based information on EMS, Shivers, and equine genetics. Additional Extension activities that met this project goal included two webinars (online seminars) in April and October that focused on equine genetics and a podcast that was recorded in October that also focused on equine genetics. These programs also served as a method to foster horse owner and veterinarian participation in the online database system. Sample collection infrastructure included the development of a website (http://www.cvm.umn.edu/equinegenetics/ems/home.html) with the aim of providing research-based information on EMS, Shivers, and equine genome research to horse owners and veterinarians. And the development of two online epidemiologic surveys for EMS sample collection, an initial screening survey and a second survey for collection of detailed phenotypic information, both supported by an online database. To date we have identified 150 veterinarians that have indicated an interest in collaborating in sample collection. Pedigree information from 124 Welsh, Dartmoor, and cross-bred ponies (59 EMS/laminitis, 65 non-symptomatic) is being analyzed. For 82 individuals, additional data including plasma insulin and triglyceride levels, as well as body condition and cresty neck scores were recorded. To visualize the relationships among individuals in the study, the pedigree of each pony was traced back four generations and all data was incorporated to construct a single pedigree comprised of 633 individuals. Preliminary segregation analysis for each phenotypic measurement as well as case/control status is underway. PARTICIPANTS: Two new personal have been added to the project, Dr. Schultz and Dr. Petersen. Dr. Nichol Schultz is a veterinarian with six years of equine clinical practice experience. She is a Pfizer Animal Health-Morris Animal Foundation Post-doctoral Fellow at the University of Minnesota, and is concurrently pursuing her PhD degree. She has played and integral role in designing the EMS website and surveys and is coordinating EMS sample collection, phenotyping and will perform the whole genome association analysis as part of her PhD thesis. Dr. Jessica Petersen completed her PhD in population genetics at the University of California at Davis before joining the project in October. Dr Petersen is a post-doctoral associate and will perform pedigree and segregation analysis for EMS and will work closely with Dr. Schultz on analysis of population substructure and genetic variation in the analysis of her whole genome association data. Dr. Krishona Martinson, PhD is overseeing all aspects of the extension and outreach portion of the project, including conference, webinar, and podcast planning, delivery and evaluation. As project PI, Dr. Martinson took advantage of two professional develop opportunities and attended and presented at the Equine Science Society meeting in Keystone, CO and the eXtension Horse Quest meeting in Louisville, KY. Dr. Martinson has also contributed to the website and survey construction. Dr. Molly McCue DVM, MS, PhD is overseeing all aspects of the research portion of the project including, website and survey construction, sample collection, segregation analyses, genetic association analyses for EMS. Dr McCue has also played a role in the extension portion of the grant including webinar and conference presentations. Drs. Stephanie Valberg and Ray Geor also assisted with construction of the website and survey and played in role in the extension portion of the grant through webinar, podcast, and conference presentations. TARGET AUDIENCES: The target audiences for this research project include veterinarians and horse owners. Extension efforts focused on these audiences with the aim of disseminating research-based information on EMS, Shivers, and equine genetics. Post-program evaluation of Extension programs were conducted to document knowledge gain and program impacts. On a scale of 1 (very little) to 5 (very much), participants had an average knowledge level of 1.8 and 2.1 prior to presentations on equine genetics and EMS, respectively, and an increased knowledge level of 3.4 and 3.7 at the conclusion of the presentations, demonstrating the presentation resulted in a participant knowledge gain. The evaluation also collected participant demographics. Seventy-nine percent of program participants identified themselves as horse owners, 92% were female, and 63% were between the ages of 40 and 50. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
To study the genetic basis of EMS, blood samples and phenotypes were collected from 124 Welsh, Dartmoor, and cross-bred ponies. Inbreeding coefficients ranged from 0 to 0.181 (avg 0.046) in the phenotyped individuals. This information and values of pairwise coancestry (data not shown) will be used to correct for population structure in genetic association studies. Ongoing segregation analyses are examining the pattern of inheritance of this condition in the population. These preliminary data will allow for the determination of the most informative set of individuals to carry forward for genotyping and mapping studies. On October 2nd and 3rd, in-person Extension and outreach programs were delivered to veterinarians and horse owners in order to disseminate research-based information on EMS, Shivers, and equine genetics. Fifty-one horse owners attended the Extension horse owner program. Fifty-eight percent of horse owners found the session on equine genetics useful in the management of their horse operation and 47% planned to make one change in their horse operation based on this information. On a scale of 1 (very little) to 5 (very much), participants had an average knowledge level of 1.8 prior to the presentation on equine genetics and an increased knowledge level of 3.4 at the conclusion of the presentation, indicating the presentation resulted in a participant knowledge gain. Eighty-four percent of horse owners found the session on equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) useful in the management of their horse operation and 68% planned to make one change in their horse operation based on this information. Participants had an average knowledge level of 2.1 prior to the presentation on EMS and an increased knowledge level of 3.7 at the conclusion of the presentation, indicating the presentation resulted in a participant knowledge gain. In all, the program participants managed 323 horses. Ninety-two horse owners and professionals participated in the first webinar, Equine Genetics 101 in April. Participants had an average knowledge level of 3.0 prior to the presentation and an increased knowledge level of 3.8 at the conclusion of the webinar, demonstrating the webinar resulted in participant knowledge gain. Seventy-three percent of horse owners found the webinar useful in the management of their horse operation, 54% planned to make one change in their horse operation based on the information, and 73% of participants indicated they had a deeper understanding of the subject matter as a result of the webinar. Forty-five percent of participants viewing in the webinar were from the Midwest, and the other 55% were located throughout the United States.
Publications
- McCue, M. 2009. Equine Genetics 101 Webinar. Available online at: http://www.myhorseuniversity.com/genetics
- Valberg, S., M. McCue, and J. Mickelson. 2009. Applications for Equine Genetics Webinar. Available online at: http://breeze.msu.edu/p62478782/
- Valberg, D. 2009. Equine Genetics Podcast with Cathy Wurzer from Minnesota Public Radio. Available online at: http://www.extension.umn.edu/horse/components/Podcasts.htm
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