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On 4/15/2000 the VIP Board of Directors announced the establishment of a Poodle DNA Bank through DNASolutions.biz for collection and banking of samples for Poodle genetic disease research! Through DNA-based research technology we can see the promised land of having specific tests to determine the presence or absence of major inherited disease in our Poodles. The research to find the genes responsible for these diseases is critically important to identify specific genes, learn how genes function in the animal and to develop diagnostic tests, treatments and potential cures for the inherited conditions. There is a massive need for DNA samples from a large population of Poodles to allow this research to proceed. Because of that need and to further the health of the breed VIP is sponsoring this DNA bank where samples will be available for all approved research needs. What is DNA? This is the abbreviation used to indicate deoxyribonucleic acid, a large molecule found in the nucleus of cells. The DNA carries the genetic instructions for all bodily functions and organization. The sequence of the parts of this DNA molecule make up the genes (the basic unit of heredity), or cell instruction set. When the coding of a gene is wrong it results in an illness or ability to produce an illness in offspring. Where and how do you obtain DNA? DNA is found is most cells of the body, especially in white blood cells. Blood can be obtained by your local veterinarian in a purple topped tube. The quality and quantity of DNA from blood is much better than that obtained from a cheek swab. This is why we are going to the extra work of collecting blood for this DNA bank project. What is the difference between a DNA marker and a gene? A marker can be thought of as a color code on a file folder. It indicates an area of a chromosome which carries a group of genes. A marker can be used to locate an area on a chromosome which may be associated with a specific gene, but it is not that gene. That is why tests for markers are not 100% accurate in identifying animals which are carriers or affected for a particular disease. These markers may be closely associated with genes, but are NOT the gene and can be inherited separately from a gene.
Why should I contribute samples to the DNA bank? You will be making a big contribution to the understanding of and development of tests to help us identify genetic disease, how the different diseases are inherited, develop tests to identify affected and carrier dogs, and finally help to both control and eliminate these diseases from future generations of Poodles. What is a DNA bank? This is a term used to indicate the collection and storage of DNA material. It is banked so that it can be made available for future and current research projects. Once the deposit is made more DNA can be made from the sample submitted, so that future sampling from each donor dog is not required. There is a well developed process whereby identical copies of the samples can be produced. This provides a reliable source of DNA for future testing and research. How can I participate in this DNA banking project? Go to: http://www.caninehealthinfo.org/dnabank.html for current information on submission of DNA samples for long term research purposes. In 2006 the VIP samples and health data were transferred to this project for management and storage. For detailed information go to the above link at the Canine Health Foundation. Thank you for your support and interest and the best of good wishes for Poodle health and happiness to each of the participants and their Poodle families from the members of VIP |
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