02263-MOU: Characterization of Kidney Disease in Dalmatians
Grant Status: Closed
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease is a significant progressive problem in dogs. Two different hereditary diseases of the urinary system are being studied in Dalmatian dogs: urinary stone formation (urolithiasis) and glomerular disease. These diseases cause distinct clinical signs: urolithiasis leads to urinary tract obstruction while glomerular disease results in protein loss into the urine (proteinuria). The genetic cause of urolithiasis is known while the genetic cause of glomerular disease has not yet been identified. Although one specific type of glomerular disease has been reported in the literature, preliminary investigations indicate that there may be multiple causes of proteinuria in Dalmatians. Evaluation of kidney tissue by the International Veterinary Renal Pathology Service has revealed diverse types of glomerular diseases in Dalmatians, at least 4 of which might be hereditary. Therefore, the most common disease type is unknown and must be identified and characterized. A detailed review of autopsy and biopsy sample archives previously obtained from Dalmatians with proteinuria will be performed. Next, prospective examination of select kidney samples using advanced techniques (electron microscopy and immunofluorescence) will ensure an accurate diagnosis of the glomerular disease. Ultimately, genetic analyses could be performed on related dogs that demonstrate similar glomerular lesions to identify candidate genes.
Funding for the research is provided through the efforts and generosity of the Dalmatian Club of America and Dalmatian Club of America Foundation. The AKC Canine Health Foundation supports the funding of this effort and will oversee grant administration and scientific progress.
Publication(s)
None at this time.
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