Individual Identification of Racehorses from Urine Samples Using a 26-Plex Single-Nucleotide Polymorphism Assay

• NCJ Number: 243723
• Journal: Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 58 Issue: 1 Dated: January 2013 Pages: 21-28
• Author(s): Hironaga Kakoi, Ph.D.; Isao Kijima-Suda, Ph.D.; Hitoshi Gawahara, D.V.M.; Kenji Kinoshita, B.S.; Teruaki Tozaki, Ph.D.; Kei-ichi Hirota, D.V.M.; Midori Yoshizawa, Ph.D.
• Date Published: January 2013
• Length: 8 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Technical Assistance)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

The researchers of this study developed a genotyping assay based on 26-plex single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for individual identification for horses.

Abstract

To construct a system for identifying individual horses from urine samples that are submitted for postracing doping tests, the authors developed a genotyping assay based on 26-plex single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). DNA was isolated from urine using a commercially available DNA/RNA extraction kit, and SNP genotyping was achieved with a SNaPshot technique. DNA profiles including 26 SNPs were acquired from urine samples and blood/hair samples. Within the studied Thoroughbred population, the 26-plex assay showed a probability of identity of 5.80 10-11. Compared to the conventional short tandem repeat assay, the SNP assay used less DNA, and the rate of successful genotyping was improved to 97 percent using aliquots of horse urine as small as 140 uL. The urinary DNA could be successfully genotyped under proper storage concerning refrigeration or freeze-thawing. This SNP assay can be used for individual identification when suspicious results are obtained from horse doping tests. Abstract published by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons.