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Classified: TOP CLASS LITTER EXPECTED
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DNA test now available for DM (21 replies)
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No comments? Don't any breeders here plan to use this test for their breeding stock? |
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Thank you for posting the link. |
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After owning a dog (still currently) with DM and watch SO many other GSD's come into the Clinic suffering from DM, it will most definately be added to my list of breeding requirements!
Thanks for the info. I will check it out!
Tina |
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I ordered a kit on Wednesday. Although Blitz is a neutered pet, I thought it would be a good idea to have him tested anyway. This could become as important as hip and elbow xrays in the future. I know I won't buy another GSD from parents that have not been tested. |
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It isn't really a "DNA test for DM". It tests for the mutated gene responsible for DM with the disclaimer that "there are a large number of dogs that have tested as genetically affected, but are reported as clinically normal by their owners." It also appears that GSDs were not part of the test group because "Research is still needed to determine the frequency of the mutation in breeds known to have DM (German Shepherd Dogs, Rhodesian Ridgebacks, Pembroke and Cardigan Welsh Corgis, Boxers, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers)."
While I think this is very important research I also think it's a little early to base one's breeding decisions on the test results unless and until more definitive conclusions can be reached, i.e., what percentage of dogs who have two copies of the mutated gene actually develop DM? Are there DM dogs who do not have the mutation? What other risk factors may exist to trigger the disease in dogs with and without the gene?
Two of my past GSDs had DM; I do take an interest in this study and its progress but I have to ask myself what one would do with the information gained from a test.
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Aqua, a lot of information can be gained by the results of this DNA test. It can identify dogs that are likely to develop DM in the future and those that are likely to produce it in their progeny. IMO that is very vaulable information for breeders and dog owners. I am having Blitz tested and if he turns out to be a dog that is likely to develop DM as he ages, I will be on the look out for the initial signalments and will then start to use Dr. Clemmons' treatment protocol. The sooner treatment is started, the better the chance of staving off the disease. In the past, one of the biggest stumbling blocks was diagnosing this disease early on, it was mostly guesswork on the part of the vets. The results of this test will aid in that diagnosis.
The vets are not suggesting that breeders withhold from breeding all dogs testing as carriers or as dogs that are likely to get DM in the future. It is a tool that will allow breeders who own carriers to use them by breeding them to a mate that is not also a carrier. |
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GSD's were included in this study.
"In the seven breeds we studied so far (Boxer, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, German Shepherd Dog, Pembroke Welsh Corgi, Rhodesian Ridgeback, and Standard Poodle)..........................
"Summary: We recommend that dog breeders take into consideration the DM test results as they plan their breeding programs; however, they should not over-emphasize this test result. Instead, the test result is one factor among many in a balanced breeding program"
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I work at University of Florida Vet College, and we also offer a DM test - as with the one that this post deals with, they all look at loci in the DNA. Although being a good test, one needs to keep in mind that none of these tests is 100% ! You wouldn't get any of the clinicians here to say absolutely positively that the animal is in question is 100% negative for DM. At least it's a start to try and track down this problem. |
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Flygirl, is that the Flash test ? The DNA test I listed here is patented by one of the researchers, I've forgotten which one, would have to look it up. I assume they are different tests, but am not a DNA expert by any means.
At any rate, I mailed off Blitz's DNA this afternoon. We'll see what it shows. As you said, it's a start.
Edited to add: The patent for this DNA test is owned by Dr. Claire Wade
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Thanks Blitz, I'm gonna get the kit too. |
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Yes, you hear of so much heartache over this disease that it is wonderful to hear of a start to reduce the frequency.
A couple of questions though.... I wonder why GSD's are excluded in the free testing (over 10yrs)? I do see that any breed tenatively diagnosed can also submit for free, to help in the on going research. But why eliminate elderly GSD's?
Debby
http://castlebrookshepherds.net |
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Debbie, my guess is GSD's are excluded because they already have enough samples from dogs over 10 years, but that's just a guess. I think if you contact them via that web site, they will answer your question. |
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I'm curious, so I sent for a test kit for my 20 mos. female.
Heather |
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Yep - this is the Flash test. If you want I can give you the Interpretation blurb that runs at the end of each lab result Let me know and I can PM it (it's a bit lengthy) |
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Look for it in your inbox!! |
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