A commercial DNA test for Lavender Foal Syndrome, a rare and lethal neurological disorder known to affect Arabian Horses, is now available through the Cornell Animal Health Diagnostic Center.
The test is a result of research from a 2-year Cornell study to locate the mutation responsible and develop a DNA test. Advancements in the past have been limited due to inadequate funding and a lack of affected foal samples. Research for developing the new test was made possible in part by $4,500 in grants from the Arabian Horse Foundation.
The test for LFS will enable breeders to test their stock and make informed decisions about breeding. The ability to identify carriers prior to making mating selections can prevent the breeding of two carriers and the production of affected foals can be reduced to zero.
Information on ordering the LFS test is available at the Animal Health Diagnostic Center. For more information on LFS, click here.
