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1753: Identification of Genetic Factors That Alter the Severity of Cardiomyopathy
Grant Status: Open
Grant Amount: $73,343
Dr. Kathryn M Meurs, DVM PhD, North Carolina State University
January 1, 2013 - December 31, 2014
Sponsor(s): American Boxer Charitable Foundation, Borzoi Club of America, Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, Saluki Health Research, Inc.
Breed(s): American Foxhound, Australian Terrier, Boxer, Clumber Spaniel, Flat-Coated Retriever, Great Pyrenees, Saluki, Scottish Deerhound
Disease(s): Cardiomyopathy
Research Program Area: Cardiology
Abstract
Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy is a genetic-based heart disease in adult dogs that was recently found to be due to a deletion mutation in the striatin gene. Dogs with this genetic mutation can suffer from irregular heartbeat, loss of consciousness and sudden death. Dr. Meurs' lab has demonstrated that Boxer dogs with 2 copies of a genetic deletion (homozygous) are most likely to have the more severe form of the disease, however dogs with 1 copy of the mutation are more likely to have variable disease; some will become quite sick while others will remain free of clinical signs. The mechanism for the variability in clinical signs is unknown but is thought to be associated with the concurrent inheritance of other genetic factors. Dr. Meurs' research will determine if additional genetic factors exist, thus greatly improving our ability to use and interpret the genetic test for the striatin mutation.
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