[ SHOWGSD-L ] More on Degenerative Myelopathy
- From: Ginialtman@xxxxxxx
- To: TISHW@xxxxxxx, d_fritsche@xxxxxxxxxx, DKARLOFF@xxxxxxx, marhaven@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx, showgsd-l@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
- Date: Sat, 9 Aug 2008 11:33:39 EDT
I wanted to share with you the way I understand the differences between the
Corgi, Boxer DM and the GSDM. I also comment briefly on the OFA and Broad
Institute test. I have heard from Dr Clemmons again-- I asked him to let me
know
if I am reflecting this information correctly --and he confirmed that as well
as to have clarified some stuff for me -- specifically about the early onset
vs the typical disease in the GSD. So this is what I think all the
technical stuff means. (second read with corrections and clarification for
some:-)
If I am understanding completely the most recent stuff I have from Dr.
Clemmons, he is speculating that the DM in German Shepherd Dogs involves a
number
of genetic markers (many of which he has found) and that there are changes in
other genes locations in addition to the changes (likened to ALS or Lou
Gehrig's) described for the Corgi and Boxer. Even in the Boxer and Corgi (and
certainly in the GSD) the SOD1 gene change does not fully explain the disease.
GSDM is like Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis in the way that the
disease manifests itself and the cells that the disease targets are the same as
for
PPMS. I cite Dr. Clemmons because he is a neurologist and his life's work
has been DM in the German Shepherd Dog. He is trying to explain all of the
changes which have been found and reported in GSDM, not just to make the
disease
fit one genetic finding.
Dr. Clemmons is not saying that there are two types of DM for the GSD. I
think he is looking at the other research and other genetic findings in order
determine the genetic make up of the disease. While 2 forms of DM have been
described in the GSD, an early juvenile form and the typical disease in older
dogs, these appear to be separate conditions. The juvenile disease may have
different genetics. It is the adult onset disease which has been recognized as
GSDM. It is this disease which is like PPMS and is related to an immune attack
upon the spinal cord. Clemmonsâ?? speculates that the SOD1 gene (which is a
likely target for his genetic test) acts as the immune trigger which
sensitizes
the body against its own nervous system and leads to GSDM. Other changes are
needed for the disease to manifest, since most of the dogs with the SOD1
change do not get the disease. This may be due to a process called â??gene
imprintingâ?? where some other genes turn on or off and it is the combination
of all
the gene changes that lead to clinical GSDM. So, the research into the
genetics
of GSDM is far from complete if we are to eventually find out which GSDs are
most likely to contract GSDM.
I also read with interest that Dr. Clemmons applauds that work is being done
by others. And now that we have given him funding, his research will
contribute to the full knowledge of the disease in GSD. As for the OFA
testâ??the way
I read it--they are inviting participation by specific breeds-- not that they
are "recommending" it necessarily but that it is pertinent for the breeds
mentioned.
I think it is too early to speculate that for GSD we have a tool by either
Broad Institute or the U of Florida that will allow us to determine the cause
of the disease or even a certain mode of inheritance or factors for prediction
of disease. Genetic testing for the purpose of elimination of carriers is
not yet appropriate. That may be the outcome of all of this work and it
certainly is beneficial that all of this interest has surfaced in the disease
of DM.
What we do know is that two different researchers have found changes in
genes in the GSD that needs additional study. If you have a dog that
qualifies--participate!!
Ginny Altman
"Please let me be as kind, intelligent, and wonderful as my dog thinks I
am."
**************Looking for a car that's sporty, fun and fits in your budget?
Read reviews on AOL Autos.
(http://autos.aol.com/cars-BMW-128-2008/expert-review?ncid=aolaut00050000000017
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