Samples Needed for Cancer Research
More samples from both affected animals and unaffected ‘controls’ are required for both HC and MRD projects, as well as for the AHT’s work on cancers affecting Goldens. Specific information and DNA swab test kits can be obtained from Mrs Woods (E-mail: Margaret.woods6@btinternet.com ).
Breed Health Coordinators’ Report
PRA1
GR_PRA1 is now an official DNA testing scheme. All tests carried out at the AHT will now be published in the Kennel Club’s BRS and on the KC web site. Participants of the GR_PRA1 Breed Council pilot study will remain confidential and will not be published unless individuals desire this in which case they can contact Gary Johnson at the Kennel Club. It was also agreed by Breed Council that ID verification should be carried out when sampling for this test.
PRA2
The identification of this second form of PRA at the AHT followed quickly on the heels of PRA1, as it so often does in genetic research. The third form is yet to be identified, but this represents such a tiny proportion of the estimated mutation (15% of 70% where 70% represents .02% of our breeding gene pool)
Breed Council have agreed that GR_PRA2 should become an official DNA testing scheme and, in line with PRA1, identification should be verified at the time of sampling.
HC
§ A recent updated Whole Genome Scan for HC using the latest high-density canine scanning array that assesses around 174,000 unique points in the genome failed to identify any regions of the DNA that are associated with HC and no evidence to support the findings of the previous scans.
§ A return to further sample collection may be the only way forward.
MRD
§ AHT are still in the process of recruiting more samples. To date the samples submitted are of mixed value partially due to difficulties/inconsistencies diagnosing MRD.
§ Samples are needed from dogs diagnosed with MRD on at least two occasions and who have NEVER passed an eye examination with respect to MRD. Controls should be from MRD certified clear dogs that were also litter screened clear.
Ø It is highly probable that these eye conditions are genetically complex and this is the reason the AHT have so far been unable to make much progress. The AHT will continue to collect samples and will endeavour to recruit the cooperation of all eye panellists to secure more DNA samples for HC, MRD and indeed any eye condition which presents that may be useful for future research.
Ectopic Ureter
The response within this DNA project has been very promising thanks to the co operation of responsible breeders from UK, Australia and New Zealand. The required samples from close relatives (50) have been reached but samples from affected, quite naturally will take longer to accumulate.
Epilepsy
The response to this project is varied and I believe this should be of great concern to us all. I have been in correspondence with several breeders who have come forward to help, providing DNA samples. Of all the conditions which affect our breed, I feel this is the most distressing and most feared. It does not usually present clinically until aged 2-3 years, is difficult (and expensive) to reach an accurate diagnosis and presents the breeder and stud dog with agonising issues. I feel the only way forward is to develop a DNA test which we could use in a positive way, breeding from parents and siblings of affected safely with knowledge of genetic status.
Ichthyothosis
A DNA test for this skin condition is available from Antigen laboratories in France. It is allegedly reported that 60% of Golden Retrievers in Europe are affected in either carrier or affected status. The AHT may be able to offer this test under license in the future
MARGARET WOODS
Breed Health Coordinator
October 2012
PRA1
GR_PRA1 is now an official DNA testing scheme. All tests carried out at the AHT will now be published in the Kennel Club’s BRS and on the KC web site. Participants of the GR_PRA1 Breed Council pilot study will remain confidential and will not be published unless individuals desire this in which case they can contact Gary Johnson at the Kennel Club. It was also agreed by Breed Council that ID verification should be carried out when sampling for this test.
PRA2
The identification of this second form of PRA at the AHT followed quickly on the heels of PRA1, as it so often does in genetic research. The third form is yet to be identified, but this represents such a tiny proportion of the estimated mutation (15% of 70% where 70% represents .02% of our breeding gene pool)
Breed Council have agreed that GR_PRA2 should become an official DNA testing scheme and, in line with PRA1, identification should be verified at the time of sampling.
HC
§ A recent updated Whole Genome Scan for HC using the latest high-density canine scanning array that assesses around 174,000 unique points in the genome failed to identify any regions of the DNA that are associated with HC and no evidence to support the findings of the previous scans.
§ A return to further sample collection may be the only way forward.
MRD
§ AHT are still in the process of recruiting more samples. To date the samples submitted are of mixed value partially due to difficulties/inconsistencies diagnosing MRD.
§ Samples are needed from dogs diagnosed with MRD on at least two occasions and who have NEVER passed an eye examination with respect to MRD. Controls should be from MRD certified clear dogs that were also litter screened clear.
Ø It is highly probable that these eye conditions are genetically complex and this is the reason the AHT have so far been unable to make much progress. The AHT will continue to collect samples and will endeavour to recruit the cooperation of all eye panellists to secure more DNA samples for HC, MRD and indeed any eye condition which presents that may be useful for future research.
Ectopic Ureter
The response within this DNA project has been very promising thanks to the co operation of responsible breeders from UK, Australia and New Zealand. The required samples from close relatives (50) have been reached but samples from affected, quite naturally will take longer to accumulate.
Epilepsy
The response to this project is varied and I believe this should be of great concern to us all. I have been in correspondence with several breeders who have come forward to help, providing DNA samples. Of all the conditions which affect our breed, I feel this is the most distressing and most feared. It does not usually present clinically until aged 2-3 years, is difficult (and expensive) to reach an accurate diagnosis and presents the breeder and stud dog with agonising issues. I feel the only way forward is to develop a DNA test which we could use in a positive way, breeding from parents and siblings of affected safely with knowledge of genetic status.
Ichthyothosis
A DNA test for this skin condition is available from Antigen laboratories in France. It is allegedly reported that 60% of Golden Retrievers in Europe are affected in either carrier or affected status. The AHT may be able to offer this test under license in the future
MARGARET WOODS
Breed Health Coordinator
October 2012
