DNA Tests - How to Choose Which Ones to Use

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:

• http://www.vin.com/apputil/content/defaultadv1.aspx?pId=12513&meta=Generic&catId=51025&id=6976373

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.'