Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Genetic study finds no single gene for mitral valve disease
By French, Anne T et al.·Published in Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997)·2012·Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, United Kingdom·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Genome-wide analysis of mitral valve disease in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are known to develop mitral valve disease, which can cause heart murmurs and other serious health issues. A study involving 36 of these dogs looked into the genetic factors behind this condition, but researchers found no specific genes that could explain why some dogs develop the disease earlier than others. This means that current breeding practices cannot rely on genetic testing to prevent mitral valve disease in this breed. Pet owners should stay vigilant for signs of heart issues in their CKCS and consult their veterinarian for regular check-ups.
People also search for: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel heart murmur · mitral valve disease in dogs · CKCS genetic testing for heart problems
Abstract
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (CKCS) is prone to severe early onset mitral valve disease. In this study, 36 purebred CKCS dogs were evaluated for mitral valve murmur and divided into early and late onset groups. A genome-wide genetic approach was used to assess whether the condition is determined by a small number of genetic factors. There were no regions of highly discrepant homo/heterozygosity in the two groups. Similarly, there was no evidence for loci associated with mitral valve murmur in a genome-wide association study. This analysis suggests that familial occurrence of mitral valve murmur in the CKCS breed is not due to a single major gene effect, indicating that breeding strategies to eliminate the disease cannot be based on genotype information at this time.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22050842/