2006 Grant No. 593. Mapping Genes Associated With Canine Hemangiosarcoma, Dr. Kerstin Lindblad-Toh, MIT Broad Institute
and Tufts University
Abstract: A particularly high incidence of HSA has been reported to occur in certain breeds (golden retriever, German shepherd and Labrador retriever) which suggest that genetic risk factors exist. They propose to collect blood DNA samples from healthy and HSA affected Golden Retrievers. They will use a newly developed analytical method in order to search for small differences in the patterns of DNA. Subsequently, DNA patterns will be compared with other related breeds. They hope to identify a small region of the DNA that is associated with the disease which should lead to the identification of genes predisposing to HSA.
They have received major support from the Golden Retriever Foundation and the American Bull Mastiff Association. When the CHF has completed the review process, they will then contact other breeds that have shown interest in supporting this research and request funding.
Saluki Health Research would like to support this study in the hopes that once a region of DNA has been identified, Saluki samples can then be examined to see if similar regions are affected. This could greatly benefit our dogs since when an associated region has been identified, carrier testing can be performed.