Research Organization: National Human Genome Research Institute Project (NHGRI)
Contact Person: Dana Mosher or Dr. Heidi Parker
Contact Phone: 310-451-9390 or 310-496-7299
Email Address: Dana Mosher or Dr. Parker
Project Web Site: Not applicable.
Malignant histiocytosis is a hereditary disease found in the Bernese Mountain Dog characterized by histiocytic infiltration of the lungs and lymph nodes. The liver, spleen, and central nervous system can also be affected. Histiocytes are a component of the immune system that proliferate abnormally in this disease. In addition to its importance in veterinary medicine, the condition is also important in human pathology.
More information about this disease is available at http://http://www.bmdca.org/health/Cancer/Histiocytic_Diseases_of_the_Bernese_Mountain_Dog.php and http://www.histiocytosis.ucdavis.edu/.
Elaine Ostrander and Heidi Parker at the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) are studying the heritable factors involved in susceptibility to malignant histiocytosis (MH), and are using blood drawn from Bernese Mountain Dogs that have been or will be positively diagnosed with MH. They still need more samples for their work.
They need samples from:
If you suspect that your dog has MH, call for a free kit. The kit includes two blood collection tubes with yellow tops marked 10cc of ACD Solution, and submission instructions. Your vet can also supply or acquire the tubes by contacting the researchers.
The scientists also need a copy of the pedigree for all dogs in the study at least through the grandparents.
Data Sheet Name: NHGRI.html Last Updated: Sep 6 2007 Proofed: AJH, PL