26 March 2007
Siberian Cat Genetic Research
Dear Siberian cat owners and breeders:
Our feline genetics research team here
at the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine has been investigating
a variety of inherited traits in domestic cat breeds. Our work
has focused on inherited diseases, like polycystic kidney disease, retinal
degeneration and the Burmese head defect, but we have also been successful
with finding the DNA mutations for several coat color variations, such
as brown variants, albinism, burmese factor and points.
We have two projects that we require
assistance from Siberian breeders:
- We are attempting to determine if there is any genetic variations that contribute to the “hypoallergenic” cats. Thus, we are collecting buccal swabs from Siberians for this project. We would love to hear from breeders/ owners who think they may have a hypoallergenic cat.
- Secondly, we were asked by several breeders to assist with a hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) project. We have been collecting the health information and buccal swabs for Siberians and our intention is to work with Dr. Kathryn Meurs. We will be analyzing the health information to help provide a better understanding of the mode of inheritance and collecting the buccal swabs. Dr. Meurs is investigating genes for causative mutations as part of her general HCM research. We will work together to genetically confirm if any identified HCM mutations cause HCM in Siberians also.
For this project, we will need samples
from affected cats, first degree relativies and all the cardiac health
information for these cats. DNA can be collected with q-tips or
the standard cytological brushes. Samples can be sent to this
address:
Leslie A. Lyons
SVM:PHR, 1114 Tupper Hall
UC Davis, One Shields Avenue
Davis, CA 95616
Previously we have used DNA samples from
Siberians for our cat diversity project and we use the samples to confirm
the new tests for coat colors, thus, we always welcome DNA samples in
general. We hope to keep you all interested in our work and bring
new projects to our attention!
Best Regards,
Associate Professor