Searching for Genetic Risk Factors for Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) - Fellowship

Equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) is a complex disease, influenced by multiple genetic and metabolic factors. In a previously funded Morris Animal Foundation study, researchers identified more than 180 regions in the horse genome containing genes associated
with EMS. In this study, the research fellow will help the team analyze circulating metabolites (substances essential to metabolism and metabolic processes such as glucose) and gene expression data. Combined analyses will help prioritize genetic regions of interest, narrow down the search for candidate genes, and identify risk markers for EMS. Understanding genetic risk factors for EMS will help veterinarians identify animals that can benefit most from management changes and early therapeutic intervention.