Somatic cell nuclear transfer as a complementary tool for genetic conservation of the Peruvian Paso horse

Cortez J.V.; Segura Portocarrero G.T.; Murga Valderrama N.L.; Bardales W.; Encina Ruiz R.; Velásquez Castillo C.L.; Grupen C.G.; Maicelo Quintana J.L. · The Journal of reproduction and development (2026) · DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2026-068

Resumen

The Peruvian Paso horse, a breed of national significance in Peru known for its unique gait, has been selectively bred for nearly 500 years and now faces potential risks due to reduced genetic diversity. To investigate the potential of somatic cell nuclear transfer to enhance genetic conservation strategies, a program was initiated to produce cloned Peruvian Paso foals. Skin biopsies from a highly awarded stallion with exceptional breed-defining traits were used as the source of donor somatic cells. Of the 15 cloned embryos reconstructed, seven blastocysts were produced, and five were transferred to five recipient mares. Three pregnancies ensued, two of which resulted in the birth of healthy foals at 333 and 347 days of gestation. Cloned foals were genetically and phenotypically identical to the donor animal, demonstrating the successful application of this approach to support genetic conservation in a protected horse breed.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional Toribio Rodríguez de Mendoza de Amazonas