Dog Alexander Disease (AxD)

Are you concerned about your dog's health? A DNA test for Alexander Disease in dogs can provide valuable insights. This genetic disorder affects the brain and can lead to severe neurological issues. By conducting a simple DNA test, you can identify if your dog is a carrier or affected by this rare condition. Early detection allows for better management and care options. Protect your furry friend by understanding their genetic predispositions. Invest in a DNA test today and ensure a healthier future for your beloved pet!

Abbreviation : AxD

Analysed mutation : GFAP c.719G>A

Inheritance : Autosomal Dominant

Acronym

AxD

Observed frequency

Rare

Clinical severity

Severe

Clinical classification

Neurological Diseases

Analysed mutation

GFAP c.719G>A
p.(R240H)

Mode of inheritance

Autosomal Dominant

Test summary:

Alexander Disease is a rare neurological disorder that can affect dogs, particularly certain breeds like the Boxer and the Boston Terrier. A DNA test for Alexander Disease identifies mutations in the GFAP gene, which are responsible for the condition. Early detection through genetic testing can help pet owners make informed decisions about breeding and treatment options. Symptoms may include tremors, seizures, and difficulty walking, often appearing in young dogs. Understanding this genetic risk can improve the quality of life for affected pets.

Available from the pack : Basic

This DNA test is included starting from our pack Basic — and is also part of the packs Basic, Standard, Advanced, Complete.

View DNA Test Packs →

Choose the pack that best fits your breeding or health strategy of your animals.

Understanding Alexander Disease in Dogs

Alexander Disease is a rare neurological disorder that primarily affects the central nervous system in dogs. It is classified as a leukodystrophy, which means it impacts the myelin sheath—the protective covering that surrounds nerve fibers. This condition is caused by mutations in the GFAP gene, leading to the accumulation of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) in the brain, which disrupts normal brain function.

Symptoms and Clinical Signs

Dogs with Alexander Disease may exhibit a range of neurological symptoms that can progress over time. Common clinical signs include difficulty walking or maintaining balance, seizures, changes in behavior, and a decline in cognitive function. As the disease advances, affected dogs may also experience muscle weakness and atrophy, leading to a decreased quality of life.

Importance of DNA Testing

DNA testing for Alexander Disease is a crucial tool for early diagnosis and management of the condition. By identifying carriers of the GFAP mutation, breeders can make informed decisions to reduce the risk of this disorder in future generations. Early detection through DNA testing can also help pet owners prepare for potential health challenges and seek appropriate veterinary care.

Diagnosis and Treatment Options

Diagnosis of Alexander Disease typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and genetic testing. While there is currently no cure for this condition, supportive care can help manage symptoms and improve the quality of life for affected dogs. Treatment may include medications for seizures, physical therapy to maintain mobility, and nutritional support to ensure overall health.

Conclusion

Alexander Disease is a serious condition that can have significant implications for affected dogs and their families. DNA testing plays a vital role in understanding and managing this disorder, allowing for early intervention and informed breeding practices. Awareness of the disease and its symptoms can empower pet owners to seek timely medical advice and support for their furry companions.

Breed recognized for the test : Alexander Disease (AxD)

Labrador Retriever

Interpretation of genotypes Genotype Status Learn more about the interpretation of genotypes FAQ: understanding the interpretation of result What does “Clear” mean? The animal does not carry the mutation. It will not develop the disease and will not pass it on. Is a “Carrier” serious? No. The animal is generally healthy but can transmit the mutation to its offspring. What if an animal is “Affected”? It carries two mutated copies. Clinical signs are expected depending on the disease. It should not be bred. Why are there differences between male / female? Some diseases are sex-linked, so their expression varies depending on the animal’s sex. The animal has two normal copies of the gene. No risk of developing or transmitting the disease. Heterozygous carrier: one mutated copy. The animal is usually not clinically affected but can pass the mutation to offspring. Male carrier or affected depending on the inheritance mode. Males have only one X or Y chromosome. Heterozygous female carrier: one mutated copy. She can pass the mutation on and may sometimes show mild clinical signs depending on the condition. Two mutated copies of the gene. The animal is at risk of developing the associated condition.

🧬 Interpretation of genotypes AxD

Genotype

Status

🟡 N/N

Non-carrier - No Risk

🟡 N/AxD

Carrier - At Risk

❌ AxD/AxD

Affected - At Risk

FAQ: understanding the interpretation

What does “Clear” mean?

The animal does not carry the mutation. It will not develop the disease and will not pass it on.

Is a “Carrier” serious?

No. The animal is generally healthy but can transmit the mutation to its offspring.

What if an animal is “Affected”?

It carries two mutated copies. Clinical signs are expected depending on the disease. It should not be bred.

Why are there differences between male / female?

Some diseases are sex-linked, so their expression varies depending on the animal’s sex.

Genotype Forecast for Offspring Mother Father Non-carrier Carrier Affected Favorable cross: majority Carrier risk is predominant. Majority affected Filter by mother's genotype Filter by father's genotype All Predict Offspring The animal has two normal copies of the gene. No risk of developing or transmitting the disease. Heterozygous carrier: one mutated copy. The animal is usually not clinically affected but can pass the mutation to offspring. Male carrier or affected depending on the inheritance mode. Males have only one X or Y chromosome. Heterozygous female carrier: one mutated copy. She can pass the mutation on and may sometimes show mild clinical signs depending on the condition. Two mutated copies of the gene. The animal is at risk of developing the associated condition.

Predict Offspring

Filter by mother's genotype Filter by father's genotype

N/N (Non-carrier)

N/AxD (Carrier)

AxD/AxD (Affected)

DNA Test FAQ

What does this DNA test detect?

This DNA test detects the mutation associated with Alexander Disease in order to identify clear, carrier, or at-risk animals.

Why test a breeding animal?

DNA testing helps breeders plan safer matings and reduce the risk of transmitting the mutation to offspring.

What is the inheritance mode of this test?

The inheritance mode reported for this test is Autosomal Dominant.

Which mutation is analysed in this test?

This test analyses the mutation GFAP c.719G>A.

Is a carrier animal necessarily affected?

Not necessarily. Interpretation depends on the inheritance pattern and the resulting genotype.

References

Van Poucke Mario, Martlé Valentine, Van Brantegem Leen, Ducatelle Richard, Van Ham Luc, Bhatti Sofie, Peelman Luc J. A canine orthologue of the human GFAP c.716G>A (p.Arg239His) variant causes Alexander disease in a Labrador retriever. Eur J Hum Genet. 2016 Jun;24(6):852-6. doi: 10.1038/ejhg.2015.223. Epub 2015 Oct 21.

My DNA Portal