The last line in this abstract may be misleading to readers outside the medical community. The study evaluated the physiology of 14 affected dogs. The statement that the "cause of collapse was not determined" refers to a physiological cause, not a genetic one. A mutation in the canine dynamin 1 (DNM1) gene has been identified with the disruption of neural transmission in affected dogs.
So, the bottom line is that there is a genetic test for identification of the EIC mutation, but the exact physiology of how the disruption of the neurotransmitter results in collapse is still being studied. Like many "cascade" events in the body, the alteration of one small element can lead to a breakdown of the whole system.
Many labs now do the testing. The link to the University of Minnesota site has information for their lab. DDC at http://www.vetdnacenter.com also provides EIC testing along with a variety of other genetic tests.
Although one gene with simple recessive transmission has been identified, other genes affecting penetrance and expression the gene could be identified.
My EIC tested "affected" bitch does not collapse. She was bred to a tested "carrier" before any testing was done. They did produce one offspring that does
collapse so far. I don't know why she doesn't collapse herself. Maybe there is another factor, but
I don't care to take a chance.
Since I ask which test you all use just want to be clear, this Ann is not me. I have not tested up until now, but that is why we are testing. Want to know where we stand going forward. It has been a very eye opening adventure. Have learned right much and still learning. Thanks for others input. Thanks to the stud owner who put it out there. Testing my girls so I can go to carriers if I wish without fear.
