# Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Differences in Athletic Ability in Racehorses Based on Whole Transcriptome Sequencing

## TL;DR

This study identifies genes linked to athletic performance in racehorses by analyzing transcriptome differences between high and average performers.

## Contribution

The study reveals novel differentially expressed genes and RNA networks influencing endurance and recovery in Yili racehorses.

## Key findings

- Differentially expressed genes like EGR1 and FOSB are linked to energy metabolism and muscle remodeling.
- lncRNAs and circRNAs synergistically regulate protein homeostasis and endurance in racehorses.
- The findings provide candidate genes for improving equine athletic performance through molecular mechanisms.

## Abstract

This study conducted whole-transcriptome sequencing on Yili horses with outstanding and average performance in the 5000 m race, identifying multiple exercise-related differentially expressed genes, including EGR1, FOSB, MRPL1, LOC100049811, SIRPB2, and CYTB. These genes, along with their associated mRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs, synergistically participate in energy metabolism, protein homeostasis, and muscle remodeling processes, collectively enhancing the endurance and recovery capacity of Yili horses in long-distance races. This study provides important references for the identification of candidate genes related to equine athletic performance.

This study aimed to compare blood samples from Yili horses with outstanding and average performance in 5000 m races through transcriptome sequencing, identify key differentially expressed genes, lncRNAs, and circRNAs, as well as related enriched pathways, and elucidate their regulatory networks. This study used six healthy four-year-old Yili stallions as subjects, divided into an excellent group (E group, n = 3) and an ordinary group (O group, n = 3) based on their 5000-m race performance. Blood RNA-Seq technology was used to analyze differentially expressed mRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs. A total of 2298 mRNAs, 264 lncRNAs, and 215 circRNAs were identified as differentially expressed. Key genes such as EGR1, FOSB, MRPL1, LOC100049811, SIRPB2, and CYTB regulate athletic performance. These genes and their associated RNAs synergistically participate in energy metabolism, protein homeostasis, and muscle remodeling processes, revealing the molecular mechanisms influencing athletic performance and providing important references for identifying candidate genes associated with equine athletic performance.