According to a report, researchers have determined that a single mare from the mid-seventeenth century is likely the origin of the gene, C-allele 66493737, which has led to the dashing speed possessed by modern-day
thoroughbreds. The study has also found that Canadian stallion Neartic and his son, Northern Dancer, were mainly responsible for spreading the gene.
The article, by Live Science, has quoted University College Dublin Genomics Scientist Emmeline Hill as saying that the results of a recent study "show that the 'speed gene' entered the thoroughbred from a single founder, which was most like a British mare about 300 years ago when local British horse types were the pre-eminent racing horses."
According to the report, the researchers in the study found that Northern Dancer's prolific breeding allowed the C allele to spread far and wide among thoroughbreds, and that his popularity as a stallion largely led to the gene being passed along far and wide.
"This just goes to show the power breeders have to shape the genetic make-up of their horses," Hill said. "Decisions regarding the race pattern in each racing jurisdiction and the commercial demand for certain types will also rapidly influence the genetic make-up of the population."
(With files from Live Science)