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PRA Gene IDENTIFIED!!!!
The Collie Health Foundation is delighted to announce that 20 years of investment on the part of Collie breeders and researchers has finally yielded fruit! In an announcement dated April 24, 2008 to the Collie Health Foundation's grants chair, Steve Johns, Dr. Gregory Acland wrote,
"As I have discussed with you, our laboratory has at last identified the gene and mutation causing PRA in Collies, and now have a DNA test that is working reliably in our laboratory to distinguish affecteds, carriers and genetically clear dogs. This test should become available to Collie owners and breeders in the immediate future. I am extremely grateful for the support and cooperation that so many Collie breeders, owners, and organizations, particularly the Collie Health Foundation, have steadfastly provided over the years.
Sincerely, Gregory M. Acland, Professor of Medical Genetics, Cornell University"
Click to download Dr. Acland's poster presented at the ARVO conference download PRA poster
This is a spectacular breakthrough and is only realized as a result of the dedication and commitment of Collie breeders and Collie Health Foundation supporters over the last 20 years. We began funding PRA research in 1988 and since then, contributed $194,766 toward this goal. Further announcements will be forthcoming as soon as we know the availability to breeders of the PRA DNA test. Thank you to all supporters and contributors that made this achievement possible!
Check back here as we learn details of how to get your Collies tested.
For information on the history of the Collie Health Foundation's participation, go to this link: