WFFS DNA Test
Ensure the Health and Future of Your Horses with Accurate WFFS Testing. Our DNA test verifies the presence of the affected allele at the PLOD1 locus responsible for Warmblood Fragile Foal Syndrome (WFFS), also known as Fragile Foal Syndrome (FFS).
Sample Requirements
- 30 to 40 hair roots - envelope
- Alternatively, 5 mL blood - K3 EDTA tube
Turnaround Time
- 2 to 5 working days
Results Description
The DNA test verifies the presence of the affected allele at the PLOD1 locus responsible for WFFS and presents results as one of the following:
- n/n: Negative for WFFS. No affected allele present. The horse is not a carrier of the WFFS mutation.
- n/WFFS: Carrier, heterozygous for WFFS. One mutated allele present. The horse can pass the WFFS allele to 50% of its progeny when bred.
- WFFS/WFFS: Positive, homozygous for WFFS. Two mutated alleles present. The foal will exhibit severe clinical signs and must be euthanized shortly after birth due to the untreatable nature of the disease.
Genetic Inheritance
Warmblood Fragile Foal Syndrome (WFFS) is an inherited autosomal recessive disorder caused by a single mutation in the PLOD1 gene.
Clinical Signs and Affected Breeds
The disease is present at birth. Affected foals have skin that lacks tensile strength, characterized by tearing, ulceration, and other lesions from normal contact. Lesions are most noted on pressure points, gums, and other oral cavity mucous membranes. Limb joints are lax and hyper-extensible, making it difficult for affected foals to stand normally.
WFFS/FFS is similar to Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS) in humans. The mutation has been reported in Warmblood breeds (11-30% carriers) and at low frequency in Thoroughbreds (2.75% of Irish Thoroughbreds), as well as in Hanoverian, Selle Français, KWPN, Oldenburg, and Westphalians.
Why Test?
Testing for WFFS is crucial for breeders to make informed decisions. By identifying carriers and avoiding breeding two carriers together, the risk of producing affected foals can be minimized. This helps ensure the health and wellbeing of future generations of horses.