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Information for Vets
The Genetics of Susceptibility to Haemangiosarcomas in German Shepherd Dogs
The University of Cambridge, along with 19 other institutions in the 12 European countries, is part of the LUPA consortium. This is a coordinated effort, supported by the European Commission, to uncover the genetic roots of a number of common dog diseases. This coordinated approach between several institutions in different countries parallels the successful model followed by researchers in the human genetics field researching complex diseases (cancer, cardiovascular diseases, asthma, diabetes…).
As a member of this consortium, the Veterinary School, in the University of Cambridge, is leading the effort to map the loci responsible for the increased susceptibility to haemangiosarcoma in German shepherd dogs.
We are currently collecting blood samples from:
- German shepherd dogs with haemangiosarcoma:
- we provide a basic histopathological service free of charge when a tumour sample is sent with a blood sample (2 or 3 ml in EDTA) plus 1 ml of serum of the same dog and the sample submission form.
- Healthy controls (German shepherd dogs aged 9years and above with no history of any form of neoplasia):
- we provide a free geriatric blood test (combined complete blood count and short profile, including liver and kidney parameters) for the first 100 German shepherd dogs (age 9years and above) with no history of neoplasia; for this test send:
- - 1 serum tube,
- - 1 EDTA tube with 2ml of blood (the EDTA tube must have a 2ml capacity and it must be filled completely to attain the correct ratio of blood : EDTA),
- - a copy of the pedigree certificate, and
- - the sample submission form.
Please visit this website periodically where we shall announce whether the offer is withdrawn or extended.
Alternatively, buccal swabs may be sent in place of blood.
- Buccal swabs may be obtained at home by the owner of the dog:
- 1) The dog should not eat for 30 minutes, or drink for 10 minutes, before the procedure.
- 2) Write the name of the dog on four packages containing collection swabs.
- 3) Place 2 of the collection swabs inside the mouth of the dog, gently rub the inner wall of the cheek for 15 seconds and allow saliva to be collected as well.
- 4) Introduce the collection swabs back into the package.
- 5) Repeat the procedure with 2 collection swabs in the other cheek.
- 6) These samples may be sent by ordinary mail to the address above, accompanied by the buccal swab form.
If you wish to participate, send the samples to:
Dr. David R. Sargan
University of Cambridge
Veterinary Medicine
Madingley Road
Cambridge CB3 0ES, UK
Tel: +(44)(1223)337686
drs20@cam.ac.uk
Tissue Samples
We are also collecting haemangiosarcoma tissue samples for RNA and DNA studies. These samples are for genetic studies so they comprise small portions (6-8 mm3) of tissue which are immersed in "RNAlater" during surgery or autopsy. We provide the RNAlater solution.
These tumour samples are small (as opposed to those required for Pathological studies), otherwise the RNAlater can not permeat the tissue which then decays.
For additional information on the genetics of dog diseases and on the European-wide effort to better understand their causes visit the LUPA website.