Ground Breaking DNA Test for Cruciate Ligament Repair Announced

By Caroline Coile In a landmark study, scientists have developed one of the first DNA tests for a complex disease in dogs, meaning one that arises from the interplay of many genes as well as environment. So far, virtually all DNA tests for disorders have detected one or possibly two gene variables. This DNA test, for canine cruciate ligament rupture in Labrador Retrievers, relies on values at thousands of genetic loci to predict if a dog is likely to develop a ruptured cruciate ligament. Perhaps even more importantly, it could herald in more DNA tests for complex disorders. Cruciate ligament rupture is one of the most common injuries in large dogs, with some breeds having a disproportionately high number of dogs affected. For example, between 5% and 10% of Labrador Retrievers rupture their cruciate ligament in their lifetime. At least half of the dogs that rupture the ligament in one hind leg go on to rupture the ligament in the other. Continue reading: http://caninechronicle.com/?p=260500