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386: Elucidation of the Genetic Defect in Familial Renal Disease in the Norwegian Elkhound

Grant Status: Closed

Grant Amount: $93,400

Dr. Peter A.J. Leegwater, PhD, University of Utrecht

July 1, 2005 - September 30, 2008

Sponsor(s): Norwegian Elkhound Association of America, Inc.

Breed(s): Norwegian Elkhound

Disease(s): Renal Failure

Abstract

Familial Renal Disease is a hereditary disease in the Norwegian Elkhound that causes kidney failure at a young age. Unfortunately, the disease is progressive and incurable. Diagnosing the disease is difficult because it requires a kidney biopsy and because of a variable expression and a late onset of signs of illness. This is the reason why dogs are often bred before they show any symptoms; the genes involved can, unknowingly be passed on to the next generation. A DNA test would make it much easier to unequivocally test the Elkhounds before breeding. That way only healthy dogs could be used for breeding, and the disease could be eradicated from the population. In this research a family of 72 Norwegian Elkhounds is going to be tested for Familial Renal Disease. A DNA sample and the disease status of each dog will be used in a genome wide DNA study, to find a marker for this disease. The aim is to develop a DNA linkage test and, ultimately, a DNA mutation test. Identification of the causative gene will lead to a better understanding of the process that causes Familial Renal Disease and similar canine kidney disease.