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- · All of the genes inherited by dogs are contained
within 39 different sets of chromosomes. There are thought to
be between 20,000 - 30,000 different genes.
- · Any chromosome between number 1 and 38 is called
an autosome. The 39th chromosome determines the sex of the dog.
- · The genes responsible for diseases such as GPRA and
Fucosidosis are inherited as what is known as an Autosomal Recessive
Trait.
- · Chromosomes (and therefore genes) are inherited in
pairs, with one copy of each chromosome being inherited from
each parent, making up the total of 39 pairs.
- · With all diseases that are inherited as simple autosomal
recessive traits, every dog can be classified genetically in
one of three ways (using GPRA as an example, but the same applies
to other diseases which are inherited in a similar way, such
as Fucosidosis):
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| This means that the dog has TWO NORMAL COPIES of the gene
for GPRA. A CLEAR dog will not, therefore, suffer from the
disease, neither can it pass on the faulty (mutant) gene to
its offspring. It is both clinically and genetically CLEAR. |
This means that the dog has ONE NORMAL COPY and
ONE FAULTY (MUTANT) COPY of the gene for GPRA. A CARRIER will
not itself suffer from GPRA, but will pass on the mutant gene
to approximately half of its offspring.
It is clinically clear, but is genetically a CARRIER. |
This means that the dog has TWO FAULTY (MUTANT)
COPIES of the gene for GPRA. These dogs will be genetically
AFFECTED (even though they may show no clinical signs of GPRA)
and they will always pass on the mutant gene to their offspring.
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| A full diagramatical explanation of the above conditions is
available for download in PDF Format |
| A Code of Ethical Guidelines in respect of Fucosidosis has been
agreed by all the UK ESS Breed Clubs in an effort to give guidance
to breeders on how best to eliminate the risks of breeding affected
dogs, whilst still breeding for quality, type and temperament. It
is intended to agree a similar code with regard to GPRA following
the availability of a DNA test for this disease. |
| Further information is available from the HEALTH CO-ORDINATORS: |
| Lesley Bloomfield |
0044 (0)1923 823579 |
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| Louise Scott |
0044 (0)20 8427 3396 |
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