02245-MOU: Genetic Predisposition to Avian Tuberculosis in Miniature Schnauzers and Bassets Hounds

Grant Status: Closed

Grant Amount: $106,858
Urs Giger, DVM, PhD; University of Pennsylvania
May 1, 2016 - October 31, 2018

Sponsor(s): American Miniature Schnauzer Club

Breed(s): Basset Hound, Miniature Schnauzer
Research Program Area: Immunology and Infectious Disease
Donate to Support this Research Program Area

Abstract

While people and dogs are generally resistant to Mycobacterium avium infections, there are certain individuals that lack proper host defense against these intracellular organisms. The precise molecular basis is still unknown, but there is much interest because of the major morbidity and mortality in susceptible patients. We have recognized that many young adult Miniature Schnauzers (and few Basset Hounds) succumb to systemic avian tuberculosis (referred to mycobacterium avium complex or MAC), characterized by lymphadenopathy, fever, diarrhea and respiratory signs. Based upon our pedigree analysis, this appears to be a simple autosomal recessive trait. Our preliminary pedigree and limited molecular genetic data suggest a strong signal for one specific small chromosomal region. We will substantiate this data with further samples and investigations and also include whole genome sequencing to identify the precise cause.

Identification of the molecular basis of this genetic predisposition will allow for a better understanding of the disease and the development of a DNA screening test to identify animals at risk of disease as well as carriers, thereby reducing the production of dogs predisposed to this fatal disease in future generations. As avian tuberculosis is a zoonotic disease, our findings should provide insight into genetic determinants of host microbe interaction and resistance in dogs and people, thereby could have an impact on comparative medicine.

Funding for the research is provided through the efforts and generosity of the American Miniature Schnauzer Club. The AKC Canine Health Foundation supports the funding of this effort and will oversee administration of funds and scientific progress reports.

Watch Dr. Giger Discuss his work in this CHF-sponsored VetVine Video.

Publication(s)

Ghielmetti, G., & Giger, U. (2020). Mycobacterium avium: An Emerging Pathogen for Dog Breeds with Hereditary Immunodeficiencies. Current Clinical Microbiology Reports, 7(3), 67–80. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40588-020-00145-5

Help Future Generations of Dogs

Participate in canine health research by providing samples or by enrolling in a clinical trial. Samples are needed from healthy dogs and dogs affected by specific diseases.

Learn How to Help

Get Canine Health News:
Please leave this field empty
American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation, Inc

8051 Arco Corporate Dr.
Suite 300
Raleigh, NC 27617
(888)-682-9696

Tax ID# 13-3813813

  

© 2021 AKC Canine Health Foundation | Privacy Policy | Site Map

Site by Blackbaud, Inc.