Identification of microsatellite markers linked to progressive retinal atrophy in American Eskimo Dogs

Abstract

Objective - To identify microsatellite markers linked to progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) in American Eskimo Dogs. Sample population - Blood samples or buccal epithelial cells from 66 American Eskimo Dogs, including 53 PRA-unaffected and 13 PRA-affected dogs. Procedure - The genotypes of unaffected and affected dogs were determined by use of microsatellite markers spanning canine chromosome 9 (CFA09). Homozygosity mapping was used to detect linkage between markers and the gene locus for PRA. Results - Significant allelic association between marker alleles and the gene locus for PRA was detected for GALK1 and TK1, indicating linkage between these markers and the causative gene locus for PRA. Conclusions and clinical relevance - These data indicate that PRA in American Eskimo Dogs is located on CFA09 and allow for the development of a microsatellite-based test to identify carrier (unaffected) and affected dogs before clinical signs appear.