CANINE DEGENERATIVE MYELOPATHY RESEARCH GROUP
Background
Degenerative myelopathy (DM) is a debilitating disease of the spinal cord that causes a slow decline of neurological function in the hind limbs until the patient is unable to walk without assistance. The disease can present early symptoms at about seven years of age in areas of the spinal cord that controls the hindlimbs and progresses to other parts of the spinal cord affecting the forelimbs and at very late stages, centres of the brain that control breathing.
A mutation in the superoxide dismutase (SOD1) gene was shown to be associated with a high risk of DM and has since been confirmed in Pembroke Welsh Corgis, Boxers, Rhodesian ridgebacks, German Shepherd dogs, and Chesapeake Bay retrievers as well as being found in 126 other breeds. A study in Pembroke Welsh Corgis in the USA suggested that there are other genetic markers including the nuclear body protein gene (SP110) which could explain why some SOD1 mutant homozygous Corgis develop DM while others live a full life without ever developing the clinical signs associated with DM. Currently it is unknown how these genetic factors influence disease penetrance and what the frequency of these genetic factors are in the population of UK Corgis.
How can we help?
OUR RESEARCH AIMS
- Screen a representative cohort of Corgis for the SOD1 and SP110 genetic factors to gain insight into the distribution of DM in the UK population.
- Search for a biomarker that may indicate the potential for developing DM in both Corgi and German shepherd breeds.
- Use cell culture and tissue samples to investigate the underlying mechanisms leading to DM and determine if a therapeutic target can be identified.
WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?
Owners of healthy or affected UK Kennel Club registered Pembroke or Cardigan Welsh Corgi dogs or those that are showing signs of DM. German Shepherd and other breeds of dogs that are referred to the SAH with suspected early signs of DM.
WHAT IS INVOLVED FOR YOUR DOG?
We will consult with participants to establish a practical time and date to collect cheeks swabs for the analysis of the status of the SOD1 and SP110 genes. The collection of swabs can be performed either by your vet or by a vet associated with the project. We will aim to identify a suitable location or arrange for a sample to be posted to us.
HOW CAN WE HELP:
Degenerative Myelopathy is diagnosed by exclusion of other conditions. At this difficult time, we will offer up to 75% discount on MRI and other diagnostic tests at the Small Animal Hospital, University of Glasgow. To monitor the progression of symptoms, we will provide free follow-up clinical examinations.
QUALITY OF LIFE
Sadly, DM ultimately leads to a stage where the quality of life is questionable and elective euthanasia is the caring outcome. As with human medicine, many conditions can only be fully understood by the detailed examination of the affected tissue. We would be grateful to discuss this avenue should we come to that point. Participation is voluntary, and you can withdraw at any time.
Research Team
Contact
Please email members of the group listed below if you would like to take part in this project
Prof. Rodrigo Gutierrez Quintana (Rodrigo.QutierrezQuintana@glasgow.ac.uk)
Prof. Catherine Stalin (Catherine.Stalin@glasgow.ac.uk)
Dr Mark McLaughlin (Mark.Mclaughlin@glasgow.ac.uk)
