Gene doping is the use of gene therapy or genetic manipulation to enhance performance. Concerned about its potential threat to horse welfare and the integrity of equestrian sport, Maria Puchalska and Olga Witkowska-Piłaszewicz, DVM, PhD, from Poland’s Warsaw University of Life Sciences, reviewed the current state of gene doping in the horse industry. In their report published in the Sept. 12, 2024, edition of Equine Veterinary Journal, they provided information stakeholders can use to implement anti-gene-doping strategies in equine sports.
Gene Doping Overview
Gene therapy is a developing field that shows promise for treating some equine diseases and injuries. Illegal use of gene therapy in horses, however, can lead to unfair competition and even endanger horse health by masking injuries and causing potentially harmful side effects. The International Federation of Horseracing Authorities (IFHA) and the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) both prohibit gene doping. Puchalska and Witkowska-Piłaszewicz listed genes that could affect horse performance if modulated or manipulated:
- Exercise adaptation genes.
- Muscle mass genes.
- Insulin-like growth factor-1, which affects muscle mass and strength.
- Muscle contraction genes.
- Growth hormones.
- Oxygen transport and erythropoiesis genes.
- Performance-related polymorphisms of certain genes.
- Genes that encode peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors, which affect exercise capacity.
A major challenge is testing for gene doping, which is limited by current detection methods.
“As of now, there have been no publicly confirmed positive cases of gene doping in sport horses, and the prevalence of gene doping practices in equestrian sports is still unknown,” the authors wrote. “The relatively recent development and implementation of advanced gene doping detection methods may mean that comprehensive testing has not been widespread enough to identify any cases of misuse. However, sporting authorities and scientists are working intensively on establishing new and accurate detection methods to identify gene doping.”
How to Combat Gene Doping in Horse Sport
Puchalska and Witkowska-Piłaszewicz proposed several strategies for implementing anti-gene doping assessments:
Regulatory framework The industry must adopt international standards, national legislation, and compliance monitoring based on the anti-doping guidelines set forth by the FEI, IFHA, and the World Anti-Doping Agency.
Infrastructure Gene doping detection will require the development of accredited regional laboratories equipped with advanced genomic analysis technology. The authors also recommended deploying mobile testing units at equine events that can collect and process genetic samples on-site.
Sport-specific protocols Anti-doping protocols will need to be tailored to the breed or discipline. Each sport has unique demands and requirements, and various horse breeds have genetic differences.
Training Veterinarians and lab technicians will need specialized training on sample collection and gene doping detection techniques. Owners, riders, and trainers will also need to be educated about gene doping’s risks and anti-doping initiatives.
Advanced detection methods Identifying gene doping will require investment in advanced testing techniques. “Cutting-edge technologies like CRISPR screening, whole genome sequencing, and epigenetic markers all show potential,” the authors noted. “Implementing genetic, biological passports that track the genetic profiles of horses over time can help detect anomalies indicative of gene doping.”
International collaboration Countries must partner to share resources, expertise, and best practices in gene doping detecting. This includes “utilizing and contributing to international databases that track genetic profiles and doping test results.”
Funding Of course, anti-doping programs require funding for their research, infrastructure, and training. These resources could come from research grant agencies and private sector entities such as businesses and philanthropic organizations. The development of inexpensive genomic testing methods is also crucial.
Legal and ethical considerations Gene doping detection methods must be harmless and noninvasive for horse welfare purposes. “Maintaining high ethical standards in the conduct of some tests, including transparency, confidentiality, and fairness, is essential,” the authors said.
Monitoring and evaluation Going forward, anti-doping policies will need to be routinely reviewed and updated to ensure they’re effective, in line with the latest scientific and technological advancements, and comply with international standards. Doing so maintains credibility and integrity.
Take-Home Message
Researchers have identified genes that bad actors could alter in an effort to enhance equine athletic performance. “Regulatory bodies have recognized this as a real threat while facing the challenge of developing official detection guidelines,” Puchalska and Witkowska-Piłaszewicz said. “Only a collective attempt of veterinarians, authorities, and researchers will ensure the welfare of horses and effective regulatory frameworks and maintain public trust and support of equestrian sports.”
Related Reading
- How Did Rodeo Gain its Social License to Operate?
- Disease Du Jour: Regulatory Veterinary Medicine for Horses
- New Research Project to Map Genetic Blueprints of 13 Horse Breeds
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