In veterinary practice, situations sometimes arise in which an animal reacts incorrectly to a drug administered by a veterinarian Did you know that there is a group of breeds that are particularly susceptible to this?
MDR-1 is the so-called gene of multi-drug resistance. A mutation in the gene, which is particularly common in dogs of certain breeds, results in the incorrect formation of P-glycoprotein (a transport protein responsible for the removal of substances foreign to the body from inside to the outside of the cell) on cell membranes, which results in impaired removal of drugs from the cellular environment.
As a consequence, administering correct, normally safe doses of certain drugs to an individual with an abnormal gene variant may result in a number of side effects (primarily from the nervous system), such as: impaired movement, ataxia, disorientation, increased salivation, vomiting, convulsions, and, in extreme cases, coma.
Based on extensive research, it has been determined that breeds particularly predisposed to MDR-1 gene mutations are:
– Short- and long-haired Scottish Shepherd,
– Shetland Sheepdog,
– Australian Shepherd,
– Silken Windhound,
– Long-haired Whippet,
– Swiss Shepherd,
– German Shepherd,
– Border collie.
All dogs of these breeds are recommended to undergo preventive genetic diagnostic using the PCR method to detect a possible mutation. Thanks to the knowledge of the genetic status of a given individual, the veterinarian is able to select medications and their doses so that they are safe for the patient.