ANSC30250 Equine Genetics

Academic Year 2021/2022

This module focuses on understanding the contribution of inherited factors to equine traits. In 2007 the horse genome was sequenced. This scientific advance is dramatically altering the face of equine breeding and management. The module encompasses lectures on horse domestication and breed development; genetic variation among horse populations; the horse genome sequencing project; genomics tools for equine scientists; disease gene mapping; coat colour genes; gene expression; genetic contributions to athletic performance in the horse. The module will introduce bioinformatics tools useful for equine scientists and will provide students with an opportunity to review a journal article on equine genetics.

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Curricular information is subject to change

Learning Outcomes:

On completion of this module students should be able to: Describe the current knowledge of the when, where and how of horse domestication and breed development. Understand genetic variation in the context of horse breeds. Describe the implications of the horse genome sequencing project for the health and welfare of horses. Describe the projects leading to our understanding of disease genes in the horse. Understand the implications of genes contributing to performance traits. Evaluate the implications of genetics information in the breeding and management of horses. Use on-line bioinformatics tools to browse the horse genome and identify and describe genes of interest.

Indicative Module Content:

• Domestication of the horse
• Development of horse breeds
• The horse genome sequencing project
• Horse genetic diversity and breed relationships
• Coat colour genetics
• Health and disease genetics
• Introduction to Bioinformatics
• Exercise and performance genomics

Student Effort Hours: 
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

24
Computer Aided Lab

6
Autonomous Student Learning

80
Total

110
Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
• Lectures
• active/task-based learning
• case-based learning
• lab/computer-based learning
 
Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations
Learning Recommendations:

Recommended that students have completed at least one prior module in biotechnology, genetics / genomics or equivalent.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Pre-requisite:
ANSC30030 - Animal Genomics


 
Assessment Strategy  
Description Timing Open Book Exam Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade
Lab Report: Bioinformatics Assignment Coursework (End of Trimester) n/a Standard conversion grade scale 40% No

15
Journal: Journal article review Week 9 n/a Standard conversion grade scale 40% No

15
Assignment: Worksheets Varies over the Trimester n/a Standard conversion grade scale 40% No

10
Examination: End of trimester written examination 2 hour End of Trimester Exam No Standard conversion grade scale 40% No

60

Carry forward of passed components
Yes
 
Remediation Type Remediation Timing
In-Module Resit Prior to relevant Programme Exam Board
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 
Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Group/class feedback, post-assessment

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Bioinformatics project • feedback will be given to students as a group in class, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the responses given in in-module assessment. This will provide students the opportunity to improve on their critical thinking and written submissions. Journal articles • feedback will be given to students as a group in class, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the responses given in in-module assessment. This will provide students the opportunity to improve on their critical thinking and written submissions.

Name Role
Assoc Professor Barbara Murphy Tutor
Dr Alison Reynolds Tutor