This updated information is provided by SHCA's Health/Genetics Committee to keep the fancy apprised of current research and studies which will benefit the Siberian Husky.
Retained Testicles (Cryptorchidism)
This study is looking at cryptorchidism (retained testicles) in Siberian Huskies,
hoping to identify the gene or genes responsible. According to the Siberian
Husky Health Foundation’s (SHHF) 2005/2006 health survey, cryptorchidism
affects approximately 14% of the males in our breed. Dr. Max Rothschild
at Iowa State University is the chief investigator for this study. They
are currently
looking to enroll affected individuals and related family members – to
participate send an e-mail to Kim@iastate.edu or
call (515) 294-6114.
(Please note that samples from neutered dogs are acceptable.)
Juvenile Cataracts
An important study that may have a profound effect for our
breed is being done by the Animal Health Trust (AHT) of England and the University
of Helsinki
which are looking to identify the gene(s) responsible for juvenile cataracts
in Northern breeds. It is estimated that juvenile cataracts may affect up to
6% of the Siberian population. DNA samples are being sought from affected dogs
as well as their close relatives. Samples from American dogs can be donated
- to participate, contact Bryan McLaughlin at the AHT by e-mail at bryan.mclaughlin@aht.org.ukor by phone at +44 (08700) 50 24 60.
Ectopic ureters
VKH (Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada like syndrome)
Dr. Mark Neff at the University of California
at Davis (UC-Davis) is heading up two studies. Both studies are looking for
DNA samples from affected dogs.
One study is hoping to find the gene or genes responsible for ectopic ureters.
Ectopic ureters is a congenital defect that causes the affected dog, most commonly
females, to uncontrollably leak urine and is usually noticed in early puppy
hood. While this condition affects only a small percent (.25-.5%) of Siberians,
for those affected it means a lifetime of treatments and for some euthanasia.
The other study being done at UC-Davis is looking at the genetic cause of Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada
like syndrome (VKH), an auto-immune disease that causes uveitis (a severe inflammation
of the eye) and depigmentation of skin. Oftentimes unless caught early and
treated aggressively this disease can lead to blindness. To participate in
either study you can contact Dr. Neff at mwneff@ucdavis.edu.
Response to anti-convulsant medication in epileptic dogs
North Carolina University
has a study whose aim is to identify the genetic markers that may be linked
to anti-convulsant response in epileptic dogs. North
Carolina is actively recruiting epileptic dogs that have been treated with
phenobarbital for at least one year for this study. To enroll a dog, e-mail
Erin Kennerly at carolinacanineepilepsy@gmail.com.
Hypothyroidism
Investigators at the University of Minnesota have concluded
sample collections for their study of breed-specific thyroid levels and the
results for our breed
is currently being analyzed with the results to be released in early 2008.
They have also begun a study looking at following a dog’s various thyroid
values over time to see if any values may predict which dogs may develop hypothyroidism
in the future. Those wishing to participate may contact Dr. Rebecca Davies
by e-mail at rdavies@umn.edu or by phone at (612) 626-0168.
Lend a paw if you can and support important research for our dogs and while
you’re at it consider donating another sample to the CHIC DNA Repository
to help future research.
Last update of this page: 01/2008
© 1996-2008 Siberian Husky Club of America, Inc.