Inflammation and/or infection of the endometrium is the leading cause of subfertility in the horse, with persistent breeding-induced endometritis (PBIE) effecting approximately 10-15% of broodmares [1].  The deposition of spermatozoa, seminal plasma, and/or bacteria into the reproductive tract causes an inflammatory response, leading to an activation of the immune system.  This involves an activation of signaling molecules (cytokines), recruitment of immune cells (neutrophils), and eventual release of prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF_2a) from the inflamed endometrium, all of which lead to the eventual expulsion of excess fluid and contaminants [2-10].

In 2013 we published an article about Frank and Mary Chapot of Chado Farms in which we included information about their then 5-year-old stallion, Gemini (photo left, 2021).  He is the clone of the famous show jumper gelding, Gem Twist, who was also owned by the Chapots.  When Gem Twist was born it would have been difficult to predict how accomplished he would become in his lifetime therefore, he was gelded as most young colts were back then.  Throughout his life, Gem Twist won Best Horse at the World Championships, was three-time AGA Horse of the year with three different riders, and won many Grand Prix throughout the world.  His most notable accomplishment was when he won both Team and Individual Silver Medals at the 1988 Olympics in Seoul, South Korea with Greg Best aboard.  With the idea they may decide to pursue the process of cloning him in the future, the Chapots made the decision to preserve tissue from Gem Twist prior to his death in 2006 at the age of 27 years old.

From breeding and horse management to laboratory work, Select Breeders Services (SBS) and its affiliate labs in the United States offer various internship opportunities for college undergraduates looking to further their knowledge and skill within the equine industry. SBS is the largest and most professionally managed provider of frozen semen services in the world. In addition, many SBS locations offer a full range of equine reproduction services, and most of the affiliate labs are state of the art veterinary hospitals as well. SBS labs provide excellent teaching and training opportunities at some of the best equine reproduction facilities in the country. There is plenty of exposure to hands on experience and on the job training.

Meet “B” (photo left)! This 2021 colt is the result of breeding with frozen processed by Paul Loomis of Select Breeders Services in April 1990 from the Hanoverian stallion, Banter (by Bolero).