|
U.C.
Davis is currently studying Siberian HCM in search for the genes causing the
disease in our breed. Because there are several types of Siberian HCM, it is
important to submit many samples from HCM positive cats and their relatives.
This project has been fully funded, and is in process.
This
study requires DNA from saliva swabs. Standard Q-Tips can be used for
sampling. Samples should be accompanied by a form for submitting samples,
pedigree information, and any available echocardiogram results. A simple form
for submitting samples is below. Forms in Microsoft XL format may be requested
from
siberianresearch@comcast.net
1.
Complete the online form, or fill out the information using the form
below.
2.
Sample only one cat at a time. If samples are to be collected from more
than one cat, please complete steps 1-6 for each cat before beginning sampling
the next one.
3.
Use 2 double-ended cotton swabs. Place swab head between the cheek and
gums, then swirl vigorously 8-10 times. Use both ends of the cotton swab.
4.
Wave the swab in the air for 20 seconds to air dry. Moisture can damage
DNA.
5.
Place cotton swabs in a paper envelope. Write the name of the cat
on the sealed envelope. Do not wrap swabs in plastic or put them in
plastic bags.
6.
Place all samples, forms, and health and pedigree information into one
envelope and mail to:
R. A.
Grahn / Siberian HCM Studies
Department of Population Health and Reproduction,
School
of Veterinary Medicine
University of California
Davis,
CA 95616, USA
Please include a copy
of the pedigree and echocardiograms if available. Include the following
information with your sample.
SIBERIAN HCM STUDY
Contact Information
Name
Address
Email
address
Cat Information
Registered
Name of the Cat
Registered
Breed
Name of the
Sire
Name of the
Dam
Date of
Birth
HCM
Diagnosis if any
DISCUSSION:
Pedigree analysis of
Siberian HCM (hypertrophic cardiomyopathy) shows the disease entered the breed
from five different points. Study of echocardiograms and disease progression
show there is a minimum of three different types of HCM in the Siberian breed.
As inbreeding continues, HCM poses an increased threat to the stability of the
breed
In 2008, Siberian
Research submitted a proposal to use familial genetics to search for the genes
causing HCM in Siberians. The proposal was submitted to Robert Grahn and Dr.
Kittleson at UC Davis, and subsequently funded by the Winn Feline Foundation.
Complete funding for the current DNA study has been funded by the Winn Feline
Foundation, UC Davis CCAH, and through Siberian Research Fundraising. An
overview of the proposal may be viewed at the link below.
SNP analysis in
Siberian cats with HCM.
Robert A. Grahn; University of California, Davis http://www.winnfelinehealth.org/Miller_scientific_2008.pdf
SAMPLE REQUEST:
Large number of DNA
samples are needed from each line of Siberian HCM. Breeders and pet owners are
strongly encouraged to submit DNA to this study. DNA is also needed from cats
that do NOT have HCM. These cats will provide a control group for analysis.
Breeders who have cats with clean echocardiograms are strongly encouraged to
submit DNA samples. Only cheek swabs are needed for this study.
DNA swabs should be
accompanied by a UC Davis submission form. Results from echocardiograms or
necropsies should be included whenever possible. Please request a DVD copy of
echocardiograms when available, as these will be reviewed by Dr. Kittleson.
This type of analysis
requires DNA from close relatives even if they are healthy. Please
include DNA from all direct relatives available. The success of this study
depends on cooperation of both breeders and pet owners.
Siberian with HCM
·
Sire and
Dam
·
Grandparents
·
Full
Siblings - from any litter
·
Half
Siblings - from any litter
·
Direct
Offspring
PRIOR DNA SAMPLES:
DNA swabs sent to UC
Davis are still on file and remain available for this study. Where blood or
swabs were sent to Dr. Kathryn Meurs at WSU, new samples need to be sumbitted
for this study.
PRIOR STUDY AT
WASHINGTON STATE:
The DNA analysis by Dr.
Kathryn Meurs last year searched five genes where HCM mutations commonly
occurred. The method used did not find any of the standard mutations in
Siberians. The WSU study confirmed that the Maine Coon DNA test does not
work for Siberian HCM. Her lab requires blood rather than saliva swabs,
and she was unable to obtain enough samples from breeders.
CONFIDENTIALITY
All samples and
information submitted fall under strict regulations concerning genetic
confidentiality. No information regarding the DNA, pedigree, or illness will be
released without the written permission from the individual who submitted the
sample.
Siberian Research has offered to help coordinate and collection of samples. If
you wish to know when your DNA sample reaches UC Davis, sent me your name and
the number of samples that you submittede. I can use that information to find
out if your sample has arrived at UC Davis. Due to confidentiality rules, I am
not allowed any more information.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
We ask that you please forward information regarding the UC Davis Siberian HCM
Study to other breeders and forums. Questions regarding this project may be
sent to Siberian Research.
Alida Birch
siberianresearch@yahoo.com
Tom Lundberg
siberianresearch@comcast.net
|