Neonatal encephalopathy with seizures / NEWS (ATF2-related) - Standard Poodle

What does this test assess?

This genetic test analyses the ATF2 c.152T>G variant in the Standard Poodle. The condition is known as neonatal encephalopathy with seizures, Neonatal Encephalopathy with Seizures, NEWS and ATF2-related neonatal encephalopathy.

The ATF2 gene encodes a transcription factor involved in normal development and function of nervous tissue. The tested missense variant changes the ATF2 protein. When two copies are present, it causes a severe brain disorder in young puppies.

What does this condition mean?

Affected puppies are often smaller or weaker than littermates from birth. During the first weeks of life they may show poor nursing, failure to thrive, weakness, ataxia, tremors, a wide-based stance and neck ventroflexion. Around three to six weeks, severe generalized seizures can develop. The condition is very severe and affected puppies generally do not survive beyond early puppyhood.

Inheritance and result

The trait is inherited as autosomal recessive. One copy makes a dog a carrier; two copies cause the genetically affected result for NEWS due to this ATF2 variant.

• TT means the dog does not carry the tested variant.
• TG means the dog is a carrier and can pass the variant to offspring.
• GG means the dog has two copies of the variant and is genetically affected.

Practical value of this test

This test is highly useful for Standard Poodle breeders because carriers can be healthy while two carriers can produce affected puppies. The result enables targeted selection without automatically removing healthy carriers from valuable breeding lines.

• Breeders can identify carriers before planning a mating.
• The result helps avoid carrier-to-carrier combinations and prevents affected puppies.
• For relatives of known carriers, the test quickly clarifies breeding risk.
• The test supports clear communication with puppy buyers and other breeders about the genetic status of breeding dogs.