Myeloperoxidase deficiency / MPOD (MPO-related) - Italian Greyhound and Italian Hound

What does this test analyse?

This genetic test analyses the MPO c.1936C>T variant for myeloperoxidase deficiency, also known as MPOD, in dogs. The variant is particularly relevant for Italian Greyhound and Segugio Italiano / Italian Hound lines.

MPO encodes myeloperoxidase, an enzyme in white blood cells that is important for normal peroxidase activity in neutrophils and monocytes.

What does this condition mean?

In myeloperoxidase deficiency, certain white blood cells show abnormal peroxidase staining. In blood analysis this may appear as cells that normally stain MPO-positive shifting into the unstained cell area.

The condition matters because affected animals may be more vulnerable to infections. DNA testing gives clear information about inherited variant status, even when a dog appears healthy.

Inheritance and result

The trait is inherited as an autosomal recessive condition. Clear dogs have two normal copies, carriers have one copy of the tested variant and affected dogs have two copies.

Practical value of this test

• The test distinguishes clear, carrier and genetically affected dogs.
• Breeders can identify carriers and plan matings without producing affected puppies.
• The result helps document MPO status within families and breeding lines.
• When peroxidase abnormalities are seen in blood testing, the DNA result can add genetic clarity.
• The test supports responsible selection without unnecessarily excluding valuable lines.