Intestinal lipid malabsorption / ILM (ACSL5-related) - Australian Kelpie

What does this test examine?

This genetic test analyses the ACSL5 deletion g.23380074_23483377del for intestinal lipid malabsorption in the Australian Kelpie. The condition is also known as ILM, lipid malabsorption, dietary fat malabsorption, fat malabsorption and ACSL5-related metabolic disorder. The test shows whether the dog is clear, a carrier or has two copies of the tested deletion.

What does this condition mean?

ACSL5 is involved in processing and absorption of long-chain fatty acids in the intestine. Puppies with two copies of the deletion absorb dietary fat inefficiently, even when food intake is normal or increased. This can lead to poor growth, smaller size compared with littermates and abnormal faeces.

Typical signs include failure to thrive, polyphagia, pale or fatty faeces, steatorrhea, abdominal distension, increased faecal volume and a dull or wiry coat. Signs can improve with age, but affected dogs can remain smaller and less tolerant of high-fat diets.

Practical value of this test

• reveals hidden carriers before they are used in breeding combinations
• helps avoid carrier-to-carrier matings and prevents puppies with fat malabsorption
• gives breeders concrete information to manage valuable Kelpie lines responsibly
• helps raise ILM as a clear possibility in young puppies with poor growth, fatty stools or a wiry coat
• supports feeding plans and risk management when a dog is genetically affected

Who benefits from this test?

The test is especially valuable for Kelpie breeders, owners of related lines and veterinarians who want to place digestive or growth problems in a young Kelpie in a genetic context. An early result makes breeding plans, puppy-buyer communication and practical dietary choices much clearer.

Inheritance and result

ILM is inherited as autosomal recessive. N/N means that the tested deletion was not detected. N/del means that the dog is a carrier and can pass the deletion on. del/del causes the tested form of intestinal lipid malabsorption.