Etalon Diagnostics

Etalon Diagnostics is a company that specializes in equine genetic testing services. It offers comprehensive panels to detect various coat colors, spotting patterns, genetic health markers, and performance traits in horses through DNA analysis. Etalon's technology involves examining specific genes and mutations responsible for these characteristics. One of the key offerings is the APHA | Complete Panel, which tests for a wide range of colors, patterns, genetic diseases, and performance-related markers in a single package. In addition to its standard panels, Etalon has also developed an early discovery phase test to assess the risk of Chronic Idiopathic Anhidrosis (CIA), a condition that affects a horse's ability to sweat.

In August 2022, Etalon's researchers identified a new white-spotting allele called W34 in the Paint Horse population. This spotting pattern is caused by a mutation in the KIT gene and tends to produce white markings on the face and legs of horses. Etalon offers DNA testing for W34 as an a la carte option.

The company collaborates closely with breed registries like the American Paint Horse Association (APHA), providing genetic testing services recognized by these organizations. Etalon's tests utilize hair samples from horses to extract DNA and generate results within a typical timeframe of seven to 10 business days.