MYHM added to APHA Genetic Health Panel

Beginning November 18, the APHA Genetic Health Panel now includes testing for Myosin-Heavy Chain Myopathy at APHA partner labs. The MYHM testing comes at no additional cost (as of that date) when purchasing the APHA Genetic Health Panel via UC-Davis or the APHA Panel at Etalon Diagnostics.

About MYHM

MYHM is an autoimmune condition that can cause severe, rapid muscle loss. A single dominant variant leads to susceptibility for two conditions: immune mediated myositis and non-exertional rhabdomyolysis. Horses with one or two copies of the MYHM variant are susceptible to rapid muscle loss, muscle weakness, stiffness or tying up.

Learn more about MYHM and other conditions in the Genetic Health Panel online and in “Chrome-O-Some Compendium” on horseIQ.com, APHA’s interactive online learning platform.

Testing FAQs

The addition of MYHM to the testing lineup is automatic as of November 18, 2024. Testing ordered prior to that date does not include MYHM, though it can be added to the existing sample for a nominal fee.

Results for MYHM will be recorded at APHA and print on the horse’s official registration certificate, if on file when a certificate is generated.

The Genetic Health Panel requirements for breeding stallions remains unchanged. All breeding stallions (APHA, AQHA and Jockey Club) require testing for HYPP, HERDA, GBED, MH, PSSM1 and OLWS. Additional testing for MYHM is not required for breeding stallion compliance.

Order DNA testing for your Paint at PHcentral.com or etalondx.com.

##

[Reprinting all or part of this news release is permitted. Please credit the Paint Horse Journal and provide a link to apha.com.]

About APHA

The American Paint Horse Association is the world’s second-largest international equine breed association. Since it was founded in 1962, APHA has registered more than a million horses in 59 nations and territories. APHA promotes, preserves and provides meaningful experiences with Paint Horses. Learn more at apha.com.