AKC Canine Health Foundation Grant No: 593A

Research Objective:

Mapping Genes Associated with Canine Hemangiosarcoma

Principal Investigator:

Kerstin Lindblad-Toh, PhD
Broad Institute at MA

Abstract:

Hemangiosarcoma (HSA), a malignant tumor of blood vessels, is a significant health concern in dogs, with a reported incidence of up to two percent of all tumors. HSA can affect all dogs, but a particularly high disease incidence has been reported in certain breeds, such as Golden Retriever (15 percent), German Shepherd Dog (10 percent), and Labrador Retriever. The higher incidence in these particular breeds suggests that genetic risk factors exist. We aim to identify the genetic risk factors associated with canine HSA in Golden Retrievers. These same risk factors are likely present in other breeds as well. We will collect DNA samples from health and affected dogs. We will use a newly developed powerful analytical method in order to search for small differences in the patterns of DNA. Subsequently, DNA patterns will be compared with other related breeds and it will be possible to identify a small region of the DNA that is associated with the disease and should lead to the identification of genes predisposing to HSA. When an associated region has been identified, carrier testing can be performed and breeding programs can be improved. Ultimately, understanding of the disease biology will lead to better treatment of HSA.