New DNA discovery identifies genetic link to painful skin condition in French Bulldog and Boxer dog breeds

SCIENTISTS have identified a genetic variant that significantly increases the risk of developing a skin condition with no known cure.

A new study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science has revealed that Wisdom Panel scientists have convincingly linked the SLAMF1 gene to Canine Atopic Dermatitis (cAD) for the first time. It is hoped the finding could lead to better informed breeding decisions. 

The SLAMF1 variant was found in 71% of French Bulldogs and 40% of Boxers, breeds known to present frequently with cAD.

The discovery came from analysing clinical data from Banfield Pet Hospital, paired with DNA data from Wisdom Panel and the MARS PETCARE BIOBANK.

Estimates suggest cAD affects up to 10 to 30% of dogs and the study’s findings adds vital knowledge to help improve understanding of disease processes and could potentially lead to more targeted solutions in the future.

In addition, identification of the SLAMF1 variant presents the opportunity for breeders to breed toward dogs with a lower risk of cAD. Though the study specifically confirmed the link in French Bulldogs and Boxers, scientists believe the implications are much broader. 

Jimmy Barr DVM, DACVECC, who is chief medical officer for Mars Petcare’s Science & Diagnostics division, said: “This finding could have a real impact on dog health.“While atopy has long been suspected to have a genetic component, this is the first time the SLAMF1 gene has been convincingly linked to this debilitating skin condition.

“This knowledge will help identify dogs at risk and could lead to new therapies and more informed dog breeding practices.”

In addition to Wisdom Panel and Banfield, this study is the first to leverage the MARS PETCARE BIOBANK - which functionally validated the study with samples. Additionally, the data was reviewed by expert dermatologists from Linnaeus. 

Wisdom Panel has developed a DNA test that will be offered in partnership with Canine Genetic Testing at the Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, so breeders can benefit from this discovery, enabling them to make informed decisions to reduce the frequency of atopic dermatitis while maintaining genetic diversity.