New Research Reveals Key Genetic Factors Behind Epilepsy in Belgian Shepherds!

Idiopathic epilepsy (IE) affects Belgian shepherd dogs more than other breeds, but scientists haven't been able to pinpoint the exact genetic causes—until now. This new study looked at gene activity in dogs with IE to find possible genetic factors linked to the condition.

The researchers found that two genes, MFSD2A and a version of RPL19, which are linked to seizures, were more active in dogs with epilepsy. Additionally, genes that are part of the body's immune response (the interferon signaling pathway) were less active in these dogs. The study also found that a specific genetic region on chromosome 14, previously linked to epilepsy risk, was associated with changes in genes like CLIC1, ACE2, PIGN, and EPDR1, all of which are involved in epilepsy or brain signaling.

This study highlights the importance of studying gene activity to understand what causes epilepsy in dogs and could lead to better ways of diagnosing and treating the condition in Belgian shepherds.

Read full study here: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4425/15/11/1474