Researchers recently discovered the genetic variation leading to CIM or congenital idiopathic megaesophagus in puppies.
As specified in a Mail Online report, scientists at Clemson University in South Carolina developed a genetic test that can determine a fatal disease that stops dogs from swallowing.
This severe illness causes an enlarged esophagus and makes it difficult for food to pass through into the stomach. Unfortunately, this causes the dogs, mainly German Shepherds, to cough up their food and water and lose weight "shortly after weaning," this report said.
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Congenital Idiopathic Megaesophagus
The dogs are also inclined to contract aspiration pneumonia and are frequently euthanized. Nevertheless, the study specified that the genetic test could enable breeders to make decisions that will lessen the risk of their litters developing CIM.
According to Leigh-Anne Clark, Associate Professor at Clemson University, by identifying the major genetic contributor to CIM in German Shepherd dogs, they have "provided breeders with a tool" they can use to lessen occurrence while preserving genetic diversity.
She added, some breeders have struggled with megaesophagus in their lines for decades, and she hopes the genetic test will allow them to worry less "about this disease and focus more on the attributes" they intend to produce.
CIM can occur in any breed, although German Shepherd has the most common or highest incidence, followed by Labrador Retrievers, Great Danes, miniature schnauzers, and dachshunds, a related Times News UK report said. Some pet owners have made special high chairs to hold their dogs upright while eating and allow gravity to support the passage of food.
MCHR2 Gene
In this recently published study, Clark and her team conducted a genome-wide scan of hundreds of German Shepherd dogs to identify genes linked to the disorder.
The findings pointed to a genetic strain in a gene identified as MCHR2, a protein playing a role in appetite, weight, and food movement through the gastrointestinal tract.
Then, a test was developed to determine this genetic cause, and findings can predict if a dog will develop the disease with 75-percent preciseness.
Good News for Breeders
A similar Public News Times report specified that dog breeders can now employ this test to make breeding decisions that will lessen dogs' risk of developing the disease. The team discovered, too, that male German Shepherds have the disorder nearly double as frequently as females.
Experts have hailed this new genetic test saying it could substantially benefit dogs. According to Alison Thomas, Head of Veterinary Services at national pet charity Blue Cross, megaesophagus is an incapacitating condition that can be very difficult to manage.
The expert added a genetic test could be employed to avoid breeding susceptible German Shepherd dogs could be of substantial "benefit to the health of the breed."
Related information about the genetic test for dogs is shown on Bernese of the Rockies' YouTube video below:
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