LUPA PROJECT ~ Dilated Cardiomyopathy
A research project funded by the European Commission investigating a number of genetic diseases in dogs. In Liverpool, we are involved in investigation of dilated cardiomyopathy in Newfoundlands, Great Danes, Boxers, Dobermanns and Irish wolfhounds. The aim is to collect DNA samples from individuals both with and without DCM, for inclusion in 2 cohorts for genome-wide analysis and comparison. It is hoped the results of the study can be used to identify the causative genes in both dogs and people. We would welcome DNA samples from dogs of these breeds that have been definitively diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy, and we are also offering screening free of charge to older healthy dogs of these breeds (6 or older in Great Danes and Irish Wolfhounds, 8 or older in other breeds) to include echocardiography, blood sample and ECG and/or Holter monitor (24 hour ambulatory ECG) if indicated.
Hannah Copeland is the LUPA project research assistant.
email: hmc79@liverpool.ac.uk or tel 0151 795 6100