Glen DNA Archive
The Kennel Club Genetics Centre to re-open as part of The University of Cambridge
Following the announcement in July 2020 of the closure of the Animal Health Trust, The Kennel Club is delighted to confirm that The Kennel Club Canine Genetics Centre will officially re-open and be located at the University of Cambridge. Here, the centre’s vital research into dog genetics and inherited canine conditions can continue.
The Kennel Club Charitable Trust has funded the centre since its initial launch at the Animal Health Trust in 2009. The new centre will continue to be led by Dr Cathryn Mellersh, and will resume its mission to research genetic mutations and assist in developing breeding tools for some of the most common and debilitating inherited conditions in dogs.
During its time at the Animal Health Trust, The Kennel Club Canine Genetics Centre had a significant impact on the health of numerous breeds. Researchers at the centre developed 25 different DNA tests for canine inherited diseases that affect over 50 breeds. Close collaboration with breed clubs and breeders is essential to the success of the centre, as is the collection of over 40,000 DNA samples that has been developed over the last twenty years. These samples, along with valuable scientific and DNA sequence data have now been secured and transferred to the University of Cambridge for further analysis.
Further information regarding The Kennel Club’s extensive work in the field of canine health and research can be found on The Kennel Club website at www.thekennelclub.org.uk/health.
Archiving DNA
Why Do It And What Does It Entail?
An increasing number of breed clubs are establishing DNA banks, or archives, to store DNA from dogs that are alive today for the benefit of the breed in the future. to offer DNA Archiving.This article answers frequently asked questions about what a DNA archive is, what the benefits are and what information needs to accompany each DNA sample for the archive to be of maximum benefit.
What is a DNA Archive?
A DNA archive, otherwise known as a DNA bank, is a collection of DNA samples from different individuals that are to be stored to an indefinite period of time. The DNA is collected with a view to using it for future research purposes, as and when it is needed.
Which dogs should have their DNA stored?
DNA from any dogs can be stored, but it is especially useful to store DNA from dogs that have or are likely to be bred from and dogs that are known to be closely related to dogs that are affected with inherited conditions.
What can the stored DNA be used for?
The stored DNA can be used for a variety of purposes. One important use for the DNA is to identify mutations responsible for inherited diseases; these diseases can be ones that are known about today or ones that might arise in the future. During a research project where a causal mutation is being sought it is often useful to analyse the DNA from affected dogs and from their parents and grandparents.
For late onset conditions parents and grandparents may no longer be alive by the time an affected dog is identified, but if the DNA from those dogs had been stored then it will be available to use long after the dogs have passed away.
Stored DNA can also be used for general breeds studies, such as estimating the genetic diversity of the breed or the frequency of disease mutations in the general population.
How can the DNA be collected?
Ideally the DNA would be collected as a blood sample (5mls) preserved in EDTA. However, in the UK, the Home Office has strict regulations restricting the drawing of blood for non-veterinary procedures, so owners should discuss this with their vet before requesting a blood sample solely for the purposes of DNA archiving. If a dog is having blood drawn for a veterinary procedure then a vet is permitted to draw a little bit extra for research purposes (which is how DNA archiving is classified) or to use any residual blood sample that is left over from the veterinary procedure.
Alternatively the DNA can be collected using buccal (cheek) swabs. Providing the instructions are closely adhered to it is usual to collect enough high-quality DNA for most research purposes.
What information needs to needs to accompany each DNA sample?
The more information that accompanies each DNA sample the more useful it is likely to be. A DNA sample from a dog for which there is little information is unlikely to be of much use. It is usual to provide details such as the dog’s name, breed, KC registration number, D.O.B., coat colour. You will also be asked for a copy of the dog’s 5-generation pedigree and for any information about the health of the dog. Keeping the archive updated with any significant health changes is VERY IMPORTANT. For example, if we want to use a particular dog’s DNA sample to study a specific inherited condition we need to know the dogs’ clinical status with regard to that disease – in other words, we need to know if the dog is affected or unaffected or unknown.
If a dog whose DNA is stored unfortunately develops any serious health condition it is very important that the owner informs the DNA Bank so the dog’s record is updated. Likewise, if the dog enjoys a healthy happy life and lives to be a ripe old age that is important information too! You do not need to submit a new DNA sample when you update the archive.
Both dog and owner information is kept in the strictest confidence,
Please supply the following information:
- Name of applicant
- Address including post code
- Contact phone number in case of clarification
- Number of swab kits required
- Please state if you require assistance to swab your Glen or if you wish to meet at a dog show where we can swab your Glen for you.
- Copy of five generation pedigree
- GPRA-crd3 certificate – if available
- Latest eye test certificate – if available
- Hip / elbow test – if available
- Copies of any documents to support any health condition – if applicable
- Copies of latest teat results – if applicable
CONFIDENTIALITY
We operate an informed consent database. All information sent to the Glen of Imaal Terrier Association DNA Coordinator, remains confidential unless the owner specifically authorizes release of information into the public domain. In the interests of monitoring breed health, Glen owners are encouraged to provide as much information about health issues as possible. Information entered into the Glen Health Database may be used for research and statistical reporting purposes, but reports will not disclose the identity of individual dogs.
As a supporter of good health for Glens, we look forward to receiving your application for swab kit in the near future.