03275: Diet-Associated Dilated Cardiomyopathy: Zeroing in on a Cause
Grant Status: Open
Abstract
Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is most commonly seen as a genetic disease of the heart muscle affecting certain large or giant dog breeds. Primary (genetic) DCM is a deadly disease that, even with treatment, usually worsens and can cause dogs to build up fluid in their lungs or even to die suddenly. However, many dogs in the last several years have developed a different form of DCM that research has associated with diets that are grain-free or contain pulses (e.g., peas, lentils) and which appear to injure the heart. Diet-associated DCM differs from primary DCM because it can affect dogs of any breed and can improve if diet is changed. Nonetheless, diet-associated DCM remains a potentially deadly disease that has caused - and continues to cause - significant harm to dogs, so it is important to identify the cause quickly.
Researchers have found some evidence of a specific type of damage to heart cells visible only by an electron microscope. Therefore, the team proposes to investigate these changes to determine whether they are unique to dogs with diet-associated DCM. In addition, the investigators would evaluate blood and urine tests that can be used to identify and monitor these changes in dogs. Finally, they propose to use sophisticated computer tools to help identify specific dietary compounds associated with diet-associated DCM. This research will help to zero in on the cause of this devastating disease and lead to more effective prevention and treatment strategies.
Publication(s)
None at this time
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