Spontaneous chronic corneal epithelial defects (SCCEDs) describe an eye disorder characterized by chronic corneal ulcers that fail to undergo normal healing. The predilection of certain breeds suggests that SCCEDs is inherited. Affected dogs develop spontaneous corneal ulcers that are often exceptionally painful and persist for weeks to months. Most dogs require surgical therapy to heal the corneal ulcer and experience corneal scarring as a result. Although SCCEDs can be effectively treated, some dogs develop additional episodes of corneal ulcers during their lifetime. The impact on the quality of life for dogs during episodes of ulceration has led to increased interest in disease prevention. However, since SCCED is an adult onset disease, many dogs are selected for breeding before they are diagnosed. A blood test that could identify affected animals before they are used for breeding would greatly decrease the prevalence of SCCEDs. Dr. Montgomery will use a genome wide association approach to identify an association of a genetic region to SCCEDs. They will then more closely evaluate the chromosomal region of interest to determine the gene and ultimately the causative genetic mutation. They believe that the identification of a genetic cause for SCCEDs can be used to reduce the prevalence of this disease in multiple affected breeds.