The broad aim of the Canine Genetics Centre is to investigate the genetic basis of inherited diseases that affect dogs and identify genetic variants that underpin those diseases.
Our research focuses on diseases that are painful, blinding, require surgical or medical intervention or otherwise reduce the quality or length of life of affected dogs. A longer-term aim is for our findings to improve our understanding of disease aetiology in dogs and other species.
The CGC research team, lead by Dr. Cathryn Mellersh, have identified more than 30 genetic variants associated with inherited diseases that affect around 50 different breeds of dog. Hundreds of thousands of dogs have been screened for these mutations globally, and thousands of dogs have subsequently been born that are free of these associated disorders.
We enjoy collaborating with other experts and welcome discussions with researchers, veterinary surgeons and other stakeholder groups regarding new or existing research projects, please get in touch with us.
Our Main Research Areas
Inherited Eye Diseases (CRIEDD)
Inherited eye diseases (IEDs), such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), glaucoma and cataracts, cause pain and blindness in thousands of dogs every year.
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is the most common cause of spinal injury in dogs, with the dachshund breed being over-represented in most IVDD reports.
Labrador Sudden Death
An emerging. inherited, disorder resulting in unexpected deaths in young Labrador Retrievers – often occurring during rest or sleep – in dogs that appeared otherwise healthy.
other projects
We also regularly undertake smaller projects of concern to the dog world where we believe the condition has an underlying genetic cause. You can read about our latest research in our regular news articles.
WElsh springer spaniels
Vestibular/deafness in Welsh Springer Spaniels
border terriers
Spongiform Leukoencephalomyelopathy (SLEM) in Border Terriers
miniature schnauzers
Osteogenesis Imperfecta or “Brittle Bone Disease” in Miniature Schnauzers
EPILEPSY
Our work on Epilepsy is currently on hold due to sourcing funding.
We welcome sample submissions from any dog that is thought to be affected with an inherited disease, please do get in touch!
