Researchers find mutation linked to brachycephaly in dogs

A study by researchers at the Roslin Institute has identified a genetic mutation linked to the flat face shape seen in dog breeds such as bulldogs and pugs. The study was carried out in 374 pet dogs of various pedigree and mixed breeds that had been treated at the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies. All the dogs had undergone CT scanning as part of their care, and researchers were able to take precise measurements of the shape of each dog's skull. They also analysed DNA samples from every dog. By comparing the genetic information with the skull measurements, the researchers were able to pinpoint DNA variations that were associated with different head shapes. One mutation, which disrupted the activity of a gene named SMOC2, was strongly linked to the length of a dog's face. The researchers found that dogs with this variation had significantly flatter faces....
Source: Veterinary Record - Category: Veterinary Research Tags: News section Source Type: research