Australian Racing Board Study on Implications of New Gene Technologies for Australian Racing

The Australian Racing Board today considered a report on the implications for Australian Racing of new gene technologies. The report, by geneticist, Dr Natasha Ellis, reviews current developments in the field of genetic research and examines the integrity and welfare concerns for racing as well as potential benefits.

“The Australian Racing Board commissioned this research because we want to put the industry on the proper footing to deal intelligently with the implications, both positive and negative, of new gene technologies. This is a complex area: on one hand these new gene technologies have the real potential to open up fresh integrity challenges as well as welfare concerns; and on the other hand there is the exciting prospect of greatly enhancing the legitimate therapeutic treatment of horses.”

“Getting this right is obviously essential, but just as important is taking timely action rather than playing catch up.”Bob Pearson, Chairman, Australian Racing Board.

The report by Dr Natasha Ellis:

(i)Identifies the potential targets for gene doping in horses

The potential targets for gene doping in horses include the likely targets for gene doping in human athletes i.e. muscle growth and enhancement of oxygen supply to muscles. In addition it could include genes targeted at improving:

• Resistance to fatigue
• Pain tolerance
• Conformation
• Disease susceptibility
• Temperament

(ii)Identifies the welfare issues

Experimental technologies carry inherent health risks. This must be an uppermost consideration at all times.

(iii)Identifies potential therapeutic benefits

Dr Ellis draws attention to the potential to use gene therapy as a legitimate treatment for injuries or disorders.

(iv)Identifies current difficulties in testing to detect use of gene technologies

The nature of the technologies used in gene doping poses a real challenge to all sporting authorities. The transgene product is likely to be identical to the endogenous product, so detection may have to rely on other changes in the athlete or horse’s physiology.

(v)Recommends on the elements of a strategy to be developed by the Australian Racing Board

Dr Ellis has recommended that the following lines be pursued in developing an Australian Racing Board strategy for dealing with new gene technologies. This will include:

• A review of the prohibited substance provisions of the Australian Rules of Racing to ensure they adequately cover the concept of gene doping.

• Development of a policy for distinguishing between use of gene therapy for legitimate therapeutic purposes as opposed to performance enhancement. This policy might include licensing those veterinarians and laboratories that may perform the procedure on racehorses

• Commission research to adapt the tests developed to detect human gene doping.

• Educate the industry on the positive and the potential dangers associated with gene technologies.

Copies of the Ellis report may be obtained from arb@australian-racing.net.au