A genetic variant has been discovered by the scientist that not only helps the horses walk and run fast but is also capable of fixing some of the human’s worst spine injuries. This discovery is a boon for the horse breeders who are engaged in horse racing etc.

DMRT3 is the key gene that is responsible for controlling nerve cells in the spinal cord of vertebrates and it plays a vital role in coordinating the leg movements of them too.

From now onwards, a patented DNA test will also be available for all the horse buyers so that they could locate and choose an animal with a higher genetic chance of success during racing.

As reported in the journal Nature, in Sweden researchers have discovered the telltale gene in the Icelandic Horse, a breed known for "pace."

Pacing refers to a strange kind of equine gait, during which the horse moves by keeping both his legs of one side forward at the same time.

Generally this kind of a gait is seen among Icelandic horses. Successors of horses are introduced to such a gait by the Vikings and it is known as a thoroughbred strain that allows a smooth and sure-footed ride.

For conducting this study, researchers compared 70 horses out of which 40 ran fast and 30 failed. The only difference between two groups was of the DMRT3 gene.