Insightful discovery reveals critical genetic alteration responsible for equine transportation capabilities in horse domestication
The Center for Anthropology and Genomics of Toulouse (CNRS/University of Toulouse) has made a significant breakthrough in our understanding of the domestication of horses. The study, conducted by CNRS researchers, will be published in the scientific journal Science on 28 August 2025.
The research deepens our knowledge of the major genetic transformations that accompanied the domestication of horses. The study reveals a key mutation that reshaped the anatomy of horses and improved motor coordination, making them more suitable for human use.
One of the fascinating findings of the study is a mutation that influenced the horse's behaviour, making it more docile and receptive to human interaction. This genetic modification, previously rare, became highly frequent at the time of horse domestication.
The study, titled "Ancient DNA reveals key genetic modifications in horse domestication" (DOI: 10.1126/science.adp4581), focuses on the migrations of horses and the origins of domestic horses. Genome sequencing of hundreds of ancient horses was used to trace the temporal trajectory of the mutations studied and identify the one that accompanied the very beginnings of horse domestication.
The horse, after humans, is the species with the most extensive paleogenetic data. This study is a significant addition to our understanding of this fascinating animal's history.
The study also found thirteen additional mutations selected at different periods in history. Some of these mutations helped increase the horse's size, starting in the Iron Age and continuing through Antiquity and the Middle Ages.
Scientists, in collaboration with Swiss and Chinese teams, have identified this important mutation behind horse-based mobility during the third millennium BCE. The authors involved in the discovery of this key mutation include Ludovic Orlando, affiliated with the University of Copenhagen and the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS).
For more information, please contact Estelle Torgue at estelle.torgue@notre site web. The study's website is https://www.notre site web/en/press/animal-domestication-key-mutation-behind-horse-based-mobility-identified.
The results of the study will be published in the scientific journal Science on 28 August. You can share this exciting news on various platforms like Bluesky, Twitter, Linkedin, Facebook, and by mail.
Read also:
- Abu Dhabi initiative for comprehensive genetic screening, aiming to diagnose over 800 conditions and enhance the health of future generations in the UAE.
- Elderly shingles: Recognizing symptoms, potential problems, and available treatments
- Exploring the Reasons, Purposes, and Enigmas of Hiccups: Delving into Their Origins, Roles, and Unsolved Aspects
- Various forms of cataracts include nuclear, pediatric, traumatic, and additional types
