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2291: Molecular Genetic Causes for Canine Lens Luxation and Glaucoma

Grant Status: Closed

Grant Amount: $70,000

Dr. Gary S. Johnson, DVM PhD, University of Missouri, Columbia

January 25, 2002 - December 31, 2003

Sponsor(s): American Bouvier des Flandres Club - Bouvier Health Foundation, American Miniature Schnauzer Club, Inc., American Sealyham Terrier Club, Basset Hound Club of America, Inc., Bull Terrier Welfare Foundation, Dandie Dinmont Terrier Club of America, Inc., Dandie Dinmont Trust Fund, Health & Rescue Foundation of the Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen Club of America, Jack Russell Terrier Research Foundation, Miniature Bull Terrier Club of America, Montgomery County Kennel Club, Inc., Tibetan Terrier Club of America/Tibetan Terrier Health & Welfare Foundation, Welsh Terrier Club of America, Inc.

Breed(s): Basset Hound, Border Collie, Dandie Dinmont Terrier, Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen, Miniature Bull Terrier, Parson Russell Terrier, Sealyham Terrier, Tibetan Terrier, Welsh Springer Spaniel, Welsh Terrier

Disease(s): Lens Luxation, Glaucoma

Abstract

Heritable lens luxation, if not treated promptly, will induce secondary glaucoma. In addition, heritable primary glaucoma can cause secondary lens luxation. Since it is not always known whether lens luxation or glaucoma is the primary disease, we believe it is rational to study both diseases together. One or the other of these diseases is responsible for loss of sight in the Basset Hound, Border Collie, Dandie Dinmont Terrier, Jack Russell Terrier, Miniature Bull Terrier, Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen, Sealyham Terrier, Tibetan Terrier, Welsh Springer Spaniel, and Welsh Terrier. We are attempting to produce DNA marker assays that will identify dogs with the mutant gene responsible for lens luxation and glaucoma. Early identification of these dogs would enable dog owners and their veterinarians to instigate measures to preserve their dogs� sight and to adjust breeding practices to minimize or eradicate the disease in their breeds.