Web resource on available DNA variant tests for hereditary diseases and genetic predispositions in dogs and cats: An Update.

Vast progress has been made in the clinical diagnosis and molecular basis of hereditary diseases and genetic predisposition in companion animals. The purpose of this report is to provide an update on the availability of DNA testing for hereditary diseases and genetic predispositions in dogs and cats utilizing the WSAVA-PennGen DNA Testing Database web resource (URL: http://research.vet.upenn.edu/WSAVA-LabSearch ). Information on hereditary diseases, DNA tests, genetic testing laboratories and afflicted breeds added to the web-based WSAVA-PennGen DNA Testing Database was gathered. Following verification through original research and clinical studies, searching various databases on hereditary diseases in dogs and cats, and contacting laboratories offering DNA tests, the data were compared to the resource reported on in 2013. The number of molecularly defined Mendelian inherited diseases and variants in companion animals listed in the WSAVA-PennGen DNA Testing Database in 2020 drastically increased by 112% and 141%, respectively. The number of DNA variant tests offered by each laboratory has also doubled for dogs and cats. While the overall number of laboratories has only slightly increased from 43 to 47, the number of larger corporate laboratories increased, while academic laboratories have declined. In addition, there are now several laboratories that are offering breed-specific or all-breed panel tests rather than single-DNA tests for dogs and cats. This unique regularly updated searchable web-based database allows veterinary clinicians, breeders and pet owners to readily find available DNA tests, laboratories performing these DNA tests worldwide, and canine and feline breeds afflicted and also serves as a valuable resource for comparative geneticists.

A web resource on DNA tests for canine and feline hereditary diseases.

Following the first identification of a disease-causing mutation in dogs in 1989 and the more recent completion of canine and feline genome sequences, much progress has been made in the molecular characterization of hereditary diseases in dogs and cats. To increase access to information on diagnosing hereditary diseases in dogs and cats, a web application has been developed to collect, organize and display information on available DNA tests and other supporting information, including gene and chromosomal locations, mutations, primary research citations and disease descriptions. The DNA testing information can be accessed at the URL: http://research.vet.upenn.edu/WSAVA-LabSearch. There are currently 131 molecular genetic tests available for hereditary diseases in dogs and cats offered by 43 laboratories worldwide. This tool should provide clinicians, researchers, breeders and companion animal owners with a single comprehensive, up-to-date and readily searchable webpage for information on hereditary disease testing.