Canine epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders affecting dogs. It causes recurrent seizures, which can range from mild episodes to severe and life-threatening conditions. While there are various reasons a dog may develop epilepsy, genetics plays a particularly important role—especially in cases of idiopathic epilepsy (IE). This type of epilepsy occurs without any identifiable brain abnormalities and is often linked to hereditary factors.
By understanding the genetic basis of epilepsy, researchers can better diagnose the condition, develop targeted treatments, and even work toward reducing its prevalence through informed breeding practices.
What Are Genes, and How Do They Contribute to Epilepsy?
Genes are the building blocks of life, acting like instruction manuals that dictate how the body grows, functions, and maintains itself. These instructions are written in DNA, which contains sequences of chemical building blocks called nucleotides. Each sequence carries the code to produce proteins, which perform essential tasks in the body.
However, when these genetic instructions are altered due to errors called mutations, problems can arise. Mutations might affect how proteins function or are produced, leading to various health conditions—including epilepsy.
How Mutations Affect Dogs with Epilepsy
Some mutations directly cause epilepsy, while others increase the risk without being the sole cause. These errors might involve:
Changes in a single DNA "letter" (nucleotide).
Missing sections of DNA.
Duplications of entire gene segments.
In dogs with epilepsy, genetic mutations can disrupt how their brains process electrical signals, leading to seizures.
Have Questions About Canine Epilepsy?
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Breeds at a Higher Risk of Epilepsy
Some dog breeds are more prone to developing epilepsy than others, highlighting a genetic predisposition. Studies have shown a higher prevalence of epilepsy in these breeds:
Australian Shepherds
Belgian Shepherds
Border Collies
Finnish Spitz
Irish Wolfhounds
Labrador Retrievers
Petit Basset Griffon Vendéens
Italian Spinones
This breed-specific risk suggests that certain gene variants inherited over generations increase the likelihood of epilepsy.
The Complex Genetics of Canine Epilepsy
The genetic underpinnings of epilepsy in dogs are complicated, involving both single-gene mutations (monogenic epilepsy) and the interplay of multiple genes (polygenic epilepsy).
Single-Gene Epilepsies
In some cases, epilepsy is linked to specific gene mutations:
LGI2 Gene: Found in Lagotto Romagnolo dogs, this mutation causes juvenile epilepsy that typically begins at a young age.
DIRAS1 Gene: Discovered in Rhodesian Ridgebacks, mutations in this gene lead to seizures with symptoms like myoclonic jerks and light sensitivity.
Polygenic Epilepsy
Many cases of idiopathic epilepsy result from a combination of multiple genetic variations. Each gene contributes a small effect, making this form of inheritance harder to predict or study.
ADAM23: A Key Risk Gene
One gene that has been identified as a significant risk factor for adult-onset epilepsy in several breeds is ADAM23. Variations in this gene increase the likelihood of epilepsy, but not all dogs with the mutation develop the condition. This highlights the complex interaction between genetics and environmental factors.
Ongoing Research and How You Can Help
Scientists are actively studying the genetic factors behind canine epilepsy to improve diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Research efforts include:
Identifying new risk genes and understanding their roles in epilepsy development.
Creating genetic tests to identify dogs with a higher risk of seizures.
Exploring how genetic factors influence treatment responses and seizure control.
How You Can Contribute
You can play a vital role in advancing this research by donating your dog’s DNA to epilepsy studies. Researchers in the UK are collecting DNA samples to better understand the genetic causes of epilepsy in dogs. Participating is easy, and your contribution could lead to breakthroughs that help future generations of dogs.
For more information on how to donate your dog’s DNA, visit these links:
Conclusion: What Role Does Genetics Play in Canine Epilepsy?
Genetics plays a critical role in canine epilepsy, especially in certain breeds with a higher predisposition. Understanding these genetic factors can lead to better diagnostic tools, more effective treatments, and improved breeding practices to reduce epilepsy in dogs.
References
Charalambous, M., Fischer, A., Potschka, H., Walker, M. C., Raedt, R., Vonck, K., … Bhatti, S. F. (2023). Translational veterinary epilepsy: A win-win situation for human and veterinary neurology. The Veterinary Journal, 105956. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tvjl.2023.105956
Cui, Z., Liu, Y., Zhu, Q., Xia, J., & Zhang, H. (2017). Exploring the pathogenesis of canine epilepsy using a systems genetics method and implications for anti-epilepsy drug discovery. Oncotarget, 9(17), 13181–13192. https://doi.org/10.18632/oncotarget.17346
Koskinen, L. L., Seppälä, E. H., Weissl, J., Jokinen, T. S., Viitmaa, R., Hänninen, R. L., … Lohi, H. (2017). ADAM23 is a common risk gene for canine idiopathic epilepsy. BMC Genetics, 18(1), 8. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12863-017-0478-6
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