Researchers at the University of Helsinki and the University of Minnesota are collaborating to attempt to determine the genetic basis of the condition commonly known as exercise-induced hyperthermia (EIH). In this study DNA samples from both affected and normal Whippets are being examined with genetic markers to attempt to identify the region of the genome that contains the causative gene. You can help with this important research by completing our online questionnaire for affected dogs, and by submitting a blood sample and supplying medical information about your dog to either of the collaborating research groups. Samples are needed both from dogs with EIH and normal healthy dogs. Samples from older healthy racing or lure coursing dogs are particularly important.

For more information on the research and how to participate, please click the following link:

https://vetmed.umn.edu/research/research-labs/canine-genetics-lab/canine-genetics-research/whippet-exercise-induced-hyperthemia

Researchers in the Bannasch Laboratory at the School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis are initiating a long term study on canine birth defects (CBD). This study is looking at some of the more common birth defects and how environmental influence may be related. The current birth defects they are currently targeting are cleft palate, umbilical hernia (requiring surgical correction) and cryptorchidism. This link will take breeders to a page where they can complete a survey and submit DNA data on puppies.

https://ccah.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/areas-study/genetics/genetics-clinical-studiestrials

Myxomatous mitral valve disease is the most common heart disease in dogs and can lead to heart failure and shortened life expectancy. While many dogs develop this condition later in life, approximately 10-20% of whippets show severe disease at a much younger age, suggesting an inherited risk. This research aims to understand why this happens by studying both genetic differences and associated protein changes in affected dogs.

Natural killer (NK) cells are immune cells whose function are to eliminate virus infected and cancer cells from the body. In this clinical trial investigators will test the feasibility, safety and immunologic and biologic activity of adoptive NK cell therapy combined with chemotherapy to treat dogs with lymphoma..

Canine myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) is the most common acquired heart disease and the most frequent cause of heart failure in dogs, resulting in difficulty breathing and eventual death. Understanding which particular type of immune cells are involved in MMVD may provide important insights into why these immune cells are there and their contribution to disease progression. Furthermore, an improved understanding of the exact inflammatory process involved in MMVD may help design a treatment for MMVD.