2009 Grant Awards
WINN FELINE
FOUNDATION
09-027: Determining genetic correlates of FIP susceptibility
Jacqueline Norris, BVSc, MVS, MASM, PhD; Steven A. Holloway BVSc, MVS, MACVSc, DACVIM, PhD; Craig McLure, BSc, PhD; The University of Sydney, Australia; $12,240
Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a fatal disease of cats involving variants of feline coronavirus, commonly called feline infectious peritonitis virus (FIPV). The disease tends to be sporadic and is more common in certain pedigreed cats and in cats from multi-cat environments. This study uses molecular biology methods to examine areas of variability in the cat genetic code that may be associated with susceptibility to FIP. In particular, the study will compare genes from cats with FIP to those of older breed-matched cats that have not developed FIP. The genes selected for examination are known to be involved in coronavirus attachment to cells or to form part of the immune response against the virus. The genes have been selected based upon examination of the complete sequence of the feline genome for areas that are likely to be variable between individual cats. In this manner, the investigators can look for genetic differences between cats that develop FIP and those that are resistant. This information will improve understanding of FIP and may provide genetic tests that will assist breeders in avoiding the use of cats with susceptibility to FIP for breeding.
>> Sponsor this study now by making your donation online (minimum $300)
Study sponsors:
- Sandra Ellis, in memory of "Kerian"
- Oscar Cortes
- Ragdoll Fanciers Worldwide Club
- Havana Brown Fanciers
