1652: Development of a Multi-Generational DNA Tissue Bank and Registry for Tibetan Terriers

Grant Amount: $7,500

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

September 22, 1998 - September 21, 1999

Sponsor(s): Orthopedic Foundation for Animals

Breed(s): Tibetan Terrier

Research Program Area: General Canine Health

Project Summary

This project developed a DNA tissue bank and registry for Tibetan Terriers (TT) to collect enough DNA to conduct research for genetic markers and to act as a pilot project. Researchers collected DNA from more than 250 dogs, and opened dialogue in the TT community, both in the U.S. and abroad, prompting breeders to talk more openly with one another about genetic problems. It also sparked interest from a number of other breed clubs seeking advice on establishing their own DNA banks. In collecting DNA from dogs with canine ceroid lipofuscinosis, the researchers determined that there were enough dogs with the disease to launch a study to find a genetic marker and that the problem is far more endemic in TTs than previously thought. Tibetan Terriers are affected by a number of genetic conditions, including progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, and canine ceroid lipofuscinosis.

Publication(s)

None at this time.