Cancer Genetics Branch
National Human Genome Research Institute
National Institutes of Health
50 South Drive, Bldg. 50, Room 5347
Bethesda, Maryland 20892-8000
Phone: (301) 451-9390
Fax: (301) 594-0023




Canine Genome Research at the Ostrander Lab

The Ostrander Laboratory at the National Human Genome Research Institute at NIH is soliciting donations of blood samples from pure bred dogs for canine health research. Our aim to use these samples as part of a larger dataset used to find genes important in disease susceptibility and progression, as well as to understand the genetic basis of canine body shape and size. Our lab has active projects focused on finding genes for several types of cancer, hip dysplasia, addison’s disease, osteoarthritis and complex morphologic traits. Finally, we are interested in understanding the architecture of the canine genome and the historical relationships between breeds.

We are seeking 10-20 blood samples from “unrelated” dogs of each breed for inclusion in our studies. For the purposes of our research dogs are considered unrelated if they do not share any common parents or grandparents. In addition to a blood sample we ask that you provide the name and sex of the dog, AKC or other registration number, owner contact information, and a signed consent form.

In order to include your breed in our studies of canine morphology we are also seeking a set of body measurements. Measurements can be completed in about 10 minutes for most dogs and provide tremendously valuable data for our research. An instruction sheet is included with the blood draw kit as well as illustrations and a tape measure to make the process quick and easy.

If you would like to participate please contact Dana Mosher, Ostrander Lab Samples Manager, for a sampling kit by phone (301-451-9390) or email (mosherd@mail.nih.gov). Each kit contains a one-page consent form, a pair of vials for collecting 5-10 cc of blood at your veterinarian’s office, and instructions for handling the blood. The collection kit comes in a small cardboard mailer tube that protects the blood vials. A return address label is included so that the forms and blood can be sent back to the lab conveniently. Blood can be mailed at room temperature without cold packs.

All genetic and contact information collected for each dog will remain confidential. Specifically, your participation in the study, your dog's pedigree, health information you provide, and any data we get from your dog's DNA sample will not be disclosed to any breeders, Club personnel, the AKC, or the AKC Canine Health Foundation.

Our work would not be possible without the participation of responsive owners and club members like you. If you have any questions please contact Dana Mosher, Ostrander Lab Samples Manager at mosherd@mail.nih.gov or (301) 451-9390. For information about the Canine Genome Project in the Ostrander lab and for links to recent publications, please visit our website at http://research.nhgri.nih.gov/dog_genome/. We thank you all for your supporting canine health research!

Sincerely,


Dana Mosher
Samples Manager
Ostrander Canine Genomics Lab
CGB/NHGRI/NIH
301-451-9390