Searching for the Genetic Mutations Associated with Tying Up in Horses

Recurrent exertional rhabdomyolysis, commonly known as tying up, is a musculoskeletal disorder that affects the health and performance of 5 to 10 percent of Thoroughbred and Standardbred horses. Horses with this condition experience painful cramping and muscle cell damage after partaking in mild to moderate exercise. Researchers hope to identify genes and genetic mutations that may increase risk of tying up in Thoroughbred and Standardbred horses. The information they learn would help identify susceptible horses and could be used to decrease the incidence of this painful muscle disorder through informed breeding practices.