Three More Reasons to Look Twice: Etalon Identifies New White Variants

Annndddd the genetic discoveries just keep coming! If you’re an Etalon fan, you know the core theme: Every horse [hair] has a story—and sometimes, that story leads to groundbreaking discoveries. We’re thrilled to announce the identification of three new Dominant White coat color variants: W37 “Magic”, W38 “Neptune”, and W39 “Penny”. These findings deepen our understanding of formerly mysteriously white-patterned horses and bring us closer to decoding the complexities of the equine genome. The moral of this story? Mutations happen.

What We Know About The New Variants

Dominant White W37 “Magic” - Identified in Anglo-Arabian horses, this novel variant is associated with bold white stockings, belly markings, and distinct facial markings with the possibility of a full white coat. In this first study, we found that horses with W37 may also have striking blue eyes. W37 was first found in the Anglo-Arab stallion Viconte des Neigas, owned by Anne Lorré and standing at stud at her farm Élevage de Brunet. He also has many beautiful offspring that sport W37 “Magic” such as Loufok de Brunet.

Dominant White W38 “Neptune” - Found initially in Polish Sporthorses, W38 horses can be observed as having sabino-like markings on the legs, belly and face to a full white coat and may be accompanied by partial or full blue eyes. W38 “Neptune” was originally found in Polish Sporthorse mare Greenlough Melody G, owned by Ilona Majewska of Neptuno Nowy Targ Stable. Melody’s dam showed the sabino-like phenotype while many of her gorgeous offspring display a full white coat with pink skin, like Zangersheide stallion Dragon White Z, owned by Lucy Danieyko.

Dominant White W39 “Penny” - Discovered in stock-type horses, this variant appears as nearly all white with colored hairs dispersed throughout the body and head. W39 “Penny” was first discovered in Stock-type mare Oakbank Pretty as a Penny, owned by Elizabeth Payette and Duncan Day.

Each of these variations stems from natural mutations in the KIT gene, a key influencer of pigmentation in horses.

Why It Matters

The more research we do into horse coat color, the more we uncover about the complexities of the equine genome. These discoveries are invaluable to breeders looking to build their dream horse—not only about coat color, but also about the broader genetic health and suitability of the animals they breed. Whites, dilutes, and markings can also be a visual hint as to something more going on health-wise. If a mutation that causes pigmentation (white markings) also happens to be on a part of the genome responsible for a function, then it could be a clue into a health issue. An example of this is possible deafness in SW2 or SW5 horses. By incorporating genetic variants into breeding programs, both new and professional breeders can better predict coat color patterns, health, performance and even temperament; enhancing outcomes while prioritizing the overall well-being of the horse.

The Future of Equine Genetics is Here

At Etalon, our mission extends far beyond color. We are dedicated to advancing equine science, improving the equestrian lifestyle, and uncovering genetics for color, health, performance, breed and temperament; the same tools and insights can be used for human translational medicine, such as Splashed White 5 (SW5) being the same mutation in humans known as Waardenburg Syndrome with the similar symptoms of blue eyes, a forelock or a shock of blond hair and likely deafness in one or both ears.

Every hair sample submitted contributes to cruelty-free animal research, expanding the database and paving the way for future discoveries. With every test, we gain new insights into the mammalian genome—insights that could ultimately benefit both horses and humans.

Join us in the pursuit of knowledge. Learn more about our discovery process and be part of the future of equine genetics.

For a list of Etalon Research and Publications, visit here.

For a detailed breakdown of our findings, read the full publication here.

Thank you for being part of the journey & a very special thank you to all horse owners who participated in this study. We would like to especially thank Anne Lorré of Élevage de Brunet for making the W37 discovery possible, Ilona Majewska of Neptuno Nowy Targ Stable and Lucy Danieyko for making the W38 discovery possible, and Elizabeth Payette and Duncan Day for making the W39 discovery possible, and for providing images of their horses. Without your horses, photos, and willingness to help, none of this would be possible.