DNA Tests: For Use in Breeding Decisions
This section offers resources on issues relative to Molecular-Genetic Tests for use in breeding decisions.
4 articles in this category
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Standards and guidelines for canine clinical genetic testing laboratories Shaffer, L.G., Sundin, K., Geretschlaeger, A. et al. Hum Genet (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00439-018-1954-4 A recent comprehensive paper by Shaffer, et al. is modeled on guidelines for human labs and on the premise that there is no reason to expect less quality from companies providing similar analyses on canine samples. The authors are to be commended for putting these suggestions into the literature. As the- Several recent articles have raised concerns about the quality of canine genetic testing. There is concern about the quality measures, standards and practices of genetic test providers (GTPs), but there are also factors related to test discovery, validation and application that may limit our ability to get the most out of genetic testing. Confusion, lack of transparency, absence of needed information on many levels, and incomplete understanding of the situations, individuals and breeds where testing is most useful are among the challenges. This article is in response to numerous queries and discussions on what is needed to improve the situation.
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The HGTD is firstly a database of GTPs who are voluntarily providing details about their 'quality' - in terms of their people and expertise, accreditation, sample handling, provision of counseling, etc. We are working with OMIA (the recognized registry of test discovery), as well as researchers at the cutting edge of genetics and genomics, to compile accurate information on tests, their validation and appropriate application. This development provides transparency for current practices, allows f- Posted originally 26 July 2018; UPDATED 30 July 2018 Congratulations to the authors (Lisa Moses, Steve Niemi and Elinor Karlsson) for their commentary in Nature (and pdf, below). In “Pet genomics medicine runs wild” these authors have done a great job describing the myriad challenges related to genetic testing in pets. In fact, their concerns reflect those underpinning the International Partnership for Dogs (IPFD) initiative - the Harmonization of Genetic Testing for Dogs (HGTD). The IPFD, together with an impressive team of Partners and Collaborators (national kennel clubs, animal industries, veterinary, academic, welfare and other organizations) and our Leadership Sponsor Genetic Test Providers (GTPs), is providing a practical and effective tool to support consumers, veterinarians and researchers. However, as we face these challenges, it is important to not lose sight of the phenomenal potential for genetic testing to support health, well-being and welfare in dogs, as well as aspects of human-dog interactions. Although the authors of the commentary justifiably call for this segment to have some controls, at the moment, there is no regulatory body that has the authority to impose standards on this burgeoning and unregulated industry - especially not on an international basis or in a timely fashion. Rather than waiting for consensus on controls, the IPFD (an independent, non-profit, registered in Sweden), together with our Partners, Collaborators and experts, as well as concerned GTPs, has created a platform that will provide the foundation to address many of the concerns raised in the Nature article.
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• Breeding with Carriers- Cathryn Mellersh, Animal Health Trust, November 2011
What Is a Carrier?
Breeding with Carriers
Mutation Frequency
Breeding Advice
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Some good information for owners and breeders - considerations for using DNA tests to identify, manage or reduce heritable disease.- Author:
Cathryn Mellersh, PhD
Animal Health Trust, Suffolk, UK Presentation given at the 7th Tufts' Canine & Feline Breeding & Genetics Conference (2015)
2015 TUFTS PROCEEDINGS The article can be accessed at:
excerpt...
- A DNA test gives information about the DNA sequence of an individual dog at a position in the genome that is known to influence a particular inherited trait.
- Most DNA tests are for a specific mutation that has been shown to cause an inherited disorder.
- Sometimes the mutation causes a 'cosmetic' trait, such as coat colour.
- Currently, most DNA tests are for mutations that cause 'Mendelian' or genetically simple inherited disorders.
- Increasingly DNA tests will become available for 'genetic risk factors,' which increase an individual's risk of developing a disorder but are not the 'whole story.'
