Cerebellar ataxia / SDCA1 + SDCA2 (KCNJ10/ATP1B2-related) - Belgian Shepherd Dog

What does this test analyse?

This genetic test analyses the KCNJ10 / ATP1B2 SDCA1 + SDCA2 variant in the Belgian Shepherd Dog. The disorder is described as spongy degeneration with cerebellar ataxia, abbreviated SDCA1 and SDCA2.

What does this mean for the dog?

SDCA is a severe neurological disorder involving the cerebellum and brainstem. Affected puppies may show loss of coordination, wide gait, wobbling, tremors, loss of balance, muscle spasms after exercise or stress, seizures and rapid deterioration from about four to nine weeks of age. This analysis bundles the two shepherd-type markers: SDCA1 in KCNJ10 and SDCA2 in ATP1B2.

Practical value of this test

• Breeders receive one analysis covering two important SDCA risk markers for shepherd lines.
• The result helps plan carrier matings responsibly and avoid carrier x carrier combinations.
• In young puppies with ataxia, tremors or seizures, the test helps genetically distinguish SDCA1 from SDCA2.
• The bundle helps prevent either shepherd-type marker being missed in breeding plans.

Inheritance and result

Both markers are autosomal recessive. SDCA1 is reported as T/T, T/C or C/C; SDCA2 is reported as N/N, N/SDCA2 or SDCA2/SDCA2.