Honors College Senior Thesis Presentations
Fragile Foal Syndrome
Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Senior
Major
Equine Business Management
List all Project Mentors & Advisor(s)
Dr. Shea Porr
Presentation Format
Oral Presentation
Abstract/Description
Though it has been around for some time, the public interest around Fragile Foal Syndrome (FFS) is recent. The hype spread rapidly from a public media announcement that a stallion at a prominent North American stud farm was a carrier (Brooks, 2021). As with most genetic mutations, FFS arose from increased inbreeding through human selection (Orlando & Librado, 2019). Fragile Foal Syndrome affects the enzyme responsible for developing the connective tissues. Two recent case studies highlighted the devastating effect of FFS on every part of the equine body (Metzger, et al., 2020; Grillos, 2021). So far, no one knows for sure where the mutation originated, but the strongest theory lies with the Thoroughbred and its progenitors (Brooks, 2021). Future advances in reproductive technologies and techniques could reduce the need to worry about the effects of harmful mutations on the equine population. However, these techniques come with ethical issues. Where does the equine industry draw the line between competitive advantage and animal welfare and natural genetic variation? Fortunately, the majority of breeders are determined to err on the side of caution. They, along with registries and other interest groups are taking steps to promote public education and to curb the spread of Fragile Foal Syndrome.
Spring Scholars Week 2022 Event
Honors College Senior Thesis Presentations
Fragile Foal Syndrome
Though it has been around for some time, the public interest around Fragile Foal Syndrome (FFS) is recent. The hype spread rapidly from a public media announcement that a stallion at a prominent North American stud farm was a carrier (Brooks, 2021). As with most genetic mutations, FFS arose from increased inbreeding through human selection (Orlando & Librado, 2019). Fragile Foal Syndrome affects the enzyme responsible for developing the connective tissues. Two recent case studies highlighted the devastating effect of FFS on every part of the equine body (Metzger, et al., 2020; Grillos, 2021). So far, no one knows for sure where the mutation originated, but the strongest theory lies with the Thoroughbred and its progenitors (Brooks, 2021). Future advances in reproductive technologies and techniques could reduce the need to worry about the effects of harmful mutations on the equine population. However, these techniques come with ethical issues. Where does the equine industry draw the line between competitive advantage and animal welfare and natural genetic variation? Fortunately, the majority of breeders are determined to err on the side of caution. They, along with registries and other interest groups are taking steps to promote public education and to curb the spread of Fragile Foal Syndrome.