Description:  Cataract (cataract) or lens opacity is the best known pathological condition of the lens. Initially, the peripheral parts of the lens are affected, which do not affect the change in vision and sharpness. However, as the cataract progresses toward the center of the lens, vision deteriorates until the individual sees only the difference between light and dark. The transparency of the lens decreases until it finally disappears completely. Such a damaged lens has a grey-white color. Cataracts are a very common hereditary disease and occur in nearly 100 different dog breeds. Various types of inheritance are described in relation to hereditary forms of cataract. Most HC are inherited by autosomal recessive, but they also exist with an autosomal dominant form of inheritance, eventually polygenic inheritance. According to scientific literature, the probability of developing the disease is 17 times higher in a heterozygous Australian Shepherd compared to a clear HSF4 animal. The test cannot exclude other genetic defects that may be involved in the development of hereditary cataract in Australian Shepherds.

Inheritance: autosomal dominant (incomplete penetrance) – Australian Shepherd

autosomal recessive – Boston Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and French Bulldog

Mutation: g.85286582delC in HSF4 gene– Australian Shepherd, Miniature American Shepherd, Miniature Australian Shepherd

g.85286582_insC in HSF4 gene – Boston Terriers, Cockapoo, Fox Terrier Wire, French Bulldogs Staffordshire Bull Terriers

Sample: EDTA whole blood (1.0 ml). For official purposes, the confirmation of the dog’s identity by Veterinarian is recommended.  

The analysis is suitable for the following breeds: Australian Shepherds, American Bully, Boston Terriers, Cockapoo, Fox Terrier Wire, French Bulldogs, Miniature American Shepherd,  Miniature Australian Shepherd, Staffordshire Bull Terriers

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