Some Persian cats have been shown to have cysts in the kidneys (polycystic kidney disease) that are inherited in an autosomal dominant fashion. Only one copy of the mutation is required to cause the disease. The cysts occur very early and they can generally be detected by six to eight months of age using ultrasound. Cats can be considered free of the disease if cysts have not formed by 12 to 18 months. These researchers propose to test if the two known genes that cause polycystic kidney disease in humans are the cause of feline PKD. They will also develop a pedigree study that will prove or disprove an association of feline PKD with the known genes and determine if other genes could be involved. Eventually, a genetic test could be developed that would enable breeders to gradually eliminate the gene from breeding populations. (Breed Study)
Grants