Horses Pulled Off a Genetic Trick Only Viruses Were Thought to Use

Horses Pulled Off a Genetic Trick Only Viruses Were Thought to Use

Scientists have discovered that horses owe their legendary stamina to a unique genetic mutation. This mutation supercharges energy production in muscle cells while cleverly keeping oxidative stress in check – a remarkable evolutionary hack that helps explain horses’ unmatched endurance. Even more fascinating, this adaptation involves recoding a genetic “stop” signal into an active part [...]

Scientists discover why horses are such exceptional athletes

Try to outrun a horse and you’ll likely lose. Despite the persistent myth that our species evolved to chase down prey on the savanna, horses will generally beat even the most elite human endurance athletes in contests of speed and distance. New research helps explain why and how horses have an athletic advantage. A study published March 27 in the journal Science finds that a unique and ancient spate of genetic mutations was key to the evolution …

A new study reveals the genetic change that made horses so athletic

A genetic change that boosts a cell's aerobic capacity while also protecting it from excess stress could explain how horses became such powerful athletes, according to a new study in Science.

Long before horses were domesticated, they were characterized by an extraordinary strength and endurance. Researchers have now come to the fore with their secret: Hence, a point mutation in a gene that is involved in the energy supply of the muscles is responsible. Thus, horses as well as related species such as donkeys and zebras can implement more oxygen, while [...] The post Uralte Genmutation makes horses so persevering appeared first on wis…

Genetic surprise gives horses exceptional endurance

A mutation that should have cut a protein short instead makes it more sensitive to the stress of exercise