reg1

Note: - this is only a beginning. I have been given results of more dogs verbally or by e-mail, but they won't be put on this register until I receive copies of their test results. Check back regularly, the register will be updated as I receive results.

I know with this information I seem to be repeating myself, but I want to make sure that we are comfortable with the fact that the tests used look for the mutant gene (does not give false results) not a marker gene (this can give false negatives)

from The Australian Equine Genetics Research Centre (Optigen)

The Australian Equine Genetics Research Centre (AEGRC) at the University of Queensland, St. Lucia is expert in equine genetic services and has expanded to include canine genetic services. In preliminary testing with OptiGen the AEGRC has developed a reliable procedure for extracting DNA from the dog blood samples that has a high success rate in the genetic tests that OptiGen performs. The extracted DNA is far more stable than fresh whole blood, reducing the risk associated with the transport of blood or other genetic materials to the USA.

Testing for PRA in Cardigan Welsh Corgis

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), a group of inherited blinding canine diseases, is seen in many pure breeds, although the exact genetic cause is known for only a few. At present, 7 genetic PRA forms are known to affect in total 13 breeds.

Luckily for Cardigan Welsh Corgis, their disease has a known genetic cause and an accurate DNA-based test for detecting presence of the mutation.

Corgi PRA is caused by a mutation in the gene called PDE6A whose normal state is essential for normal vision. The disease in Corgis, similar to PRA seen in Irish Setters and caused by a related gene, is of early onset with signs of retinal abnormality and vision loss already by one year of age. The Corgi form of PRA is called rcd3, that is, the third PRA form with rod-cone degeneration.
Rod and cone refer to the shapes of cells in the retina that respond to light, but are progressively degenerating when affected with this disease.

from The Kennel Club re Cambridge test results

The following Cardigan Welsh Corgis have been DNA tested for progressive retinal atrophy (gPRA rcd-3) by the Centre for Veterinary Science at the University of Cambridge.
The test distinguishes between clear, carrier and affected dogs.

Clear dogs have no copies of the mutant gene responsible for gPRA and will neither develop the condition nor pass a GPRA gene on to its offspring.
Carrier dogs have one copy of the normal gene and one copy of the mutant gene; they will not develop the condition, but will pass a mutant gene on to approximately half of their offspring.
Affected dogs have two copies of the mutant gene that causes gPRA and will develop the disease.

from their certificate

The dogs are tested for the presence of the mutant gene causing gPRA (rcd-3).

Normal: the dog has 2 copies of the normal gene at the corgi gPRA (rcd-3) locus, and will neither develop PRA (of the rcd-3 type) nor pass a gPRA (rcd-3) gene to its offspring.

Carrier: the dog has one copy of the normal gene and one copy of the mutant rcd-3 gene at the PRA locus. It will not develop gPRA (rcd-3), but will pass the rcd-3 mutation to half its offspring (on average). If mated with another carrier dog, one quarter of the offspring (on average) will develop gPRA (rcd-3).

Affected: the dog has 2 copies of the mutant rcd-3 gene and either already has PRA or will develop it, usually by the age of 12 months.

Re GeneSearch test results

I am still looking for info on this test. I don't think it is available anymore.

re the wording of the results

I am recording the results as they are recorded on their source.

Both The Kennel Club and the US CWCA report the result as �clear�.

The test certificate from Cambridge reports the result as �normal for gPRA (rcd-2)�.

The Optigen certificate, states that the dog is tested normal for the rcd-3 gene.

Test certificate from GeneSearch reports the result as �clear (homozygous wild type)�.
They list the test as �DNA test - Progressive Retinal Atrophy�
I am trying to find out more detail.

Michigan State University,
DNA TEST FOR PROGRESSIVE RETINAL ATROPHY (PRA) IN CARDIGAN WELSH CORGIS
What is this test for?
The test detects the presence of the gene defect that is known to cause PRA in Cardigan Welsh corgis.
The test cannot identify any other form of PRA.
Using the test it is possible to identify Cardigan Welsh Corgis that are: -
� Affected with PRA (affected individuals have two copies of the defective gene).
� Carriers of PRA (have one copy of the defective gene and one normal gene copy).
   Carriers do not develop the disease themselves but can pass the defective gene on to the next generation.
   If members of the next generation receive a defective gene from each parent they will develop PRA.
� Genetically unaffected for PRA (have two copies of the normal version of the gene).

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
& the Cardigan Welsh Corgi

To the Disease & its History

Last updated: - 3/12/2007

PM - I have put together a "Health pedigree" and determined that the dog must be clear of this form of
             PRA.
        - In doing this I am assuming that Cardi breeders are honest & thus dogs are true to their official
             pedigree.
            These days parentage can be DNA verified; obviously for dogs that have passed on this is not
            possible.

                                          If you have any doubts, get your dog tested.

If anyone would like a copy of such a pedigree for a dog of their own or a dog that they wish to use at stud or buy, let me know and I will send you a copy.

GeneticScienceServices (A division of Genetic Technologies) based in Victoria.

Type of Test: rcd3-PRA
Result of Test: clear etc

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PRA Test Info

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