DENVER/January 30, 2026 – Morris Animal Foundation is funding five new equine health studies focused on improving diagnosis, treatment and prevention of major horse diseases.
“We’re excited about these new projects aimed to improve the health of horses,” said Dr. Kelly Diehl, Senior Director of Science Communication at Morris Animal Foundation. “The proposals cover a wide range of health issues and range from novel vaccine creation to practical feeding strategies. All have the potential to impact horses now and in the future.”
Funding Categories
Four types of awards were granted:
- Established Investigator: Awarded to experienced researchers with a strong publication record advancing animal health.
- First Award: Supports early career investigators establishing independent research careers.
- Pilot Study: Prove funding for innovative ideas to accelerate discovery.
- Fellowship Training: Provides salary support and mentorship to develop the next generation of veterinary researchers.
Grant Recipients and Topics:
Drug Resistance in Horse Parasites
Dr. Alessia Libera Gazzonis, Università degli Studi di Milano
This study will evaluate whether a combination testing strategy can accurately and quickly detect parasite drug resistance. The goal is to optimize drug therapy and improve parasite control in horses.
Feeding Strategies for Horses with Metabolic Conditions
Dr. Erica Macon, Texas A&M University
Researchers will study practical feeding strategies to create evidence-based nutrition guidelines for managing horses with metabolic conditions, such as insulin resistance.
Biomarkers for Equine Melanoma
Dr. Isabelle Piotrowski, University of Zurich
Using advanced molecular biology techniques, this study will search for melanoma biomarkers in horse blood and examine tumor tissue to identify potential new treatment targets for this common equine cancer.
Gene Editing for Equine Infectious Anemia
Dr. Udeni Balasuriya, Louisiana State University
This research explores the use of CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing to remove viral DNA from cells. The goal is to develop a possible cure for equine infectious anemia, a chronic and potentially fatal viral disease.
Nanobody Therapy for Strangles
Dr. Fionna Lehmann, Tufts University
This study investigates the use of nanobodies – specialized antibodies – to treat strangles, a common but severe airway infection in horses caused by the bacterium Streptococcus equi.
To learn more or support equine health research at the Foundation, visit morrisanimalfoundation.org/horses.
About Morris Animal Foundation
Morris Animal Foundation’s mission is to bridge science and resources to advance the health of animals. Founded in 1948 and headquartered in Denver, it is one of the largest nonprofit animal health research organizations in the world, funding more than $170 million in 3,200+ critical animal health studies across species. Learn more at morrisanimalfoundation.org.
Media Contact: Lindsey Washington
