Grant Amount: $299,000.16

Dr. Mark W. Neff, PhD, University of California, Davis

July 1, 2005 - December 31, 2006

Breed(s): -All Dogs

Disease(s): Genome Mapping

Abstract

The Broad Institute at MIT/Harvard has made public a whole-genome sequence of the dog. This resource renders obsolete most preceding canine genomic maps, with the exception of the linkage map, which reflects differential rates of recombination across the dog genome that must be derived empirically. Whereas the genome sequence provides the most powerful platform for interrogating and cloning individual genes, the linkage map is the principal tool for gaining initial genetic access to complex disease pathways. Despite its fundamental importance, the current version of the linkage map consists of less than 500 markers (in contrast, the human map has ~ 15,000 loci and 30-fold greater resolution). A comprehensive linkage map is an important unmet need in canine genetics. Here we outline a plan to effectively complete the canine map by developing ~ 2700 evenly spaced loci from the sequence, and typing these markers on several dog families to generate a robust dataset for linkage. Rigorous analysis of these data will produce an accurate map that allows researchers to fully explore the genetic landscape of the dog genome for genes of biological interest and practical importance. Given that the new map will be a catalyst for discovery, we will publish several refinements on the Internet prior to publication in a scientific journal.