Researchers have found a gene associated with longevity in golden retrievers, one of the most popular breeds of dogs.
Golden retrievers are one of the most popular breeds of dogs. But research shows they have up to a 65% chance of dying from cancer. In a new study, University of California, Davis, researchers set out to find if certain genetic factors could help their survival rate. But instead of searching for genes associated with a cancer diagnosis in the breed, they instead chose to look for genes associated with longer life.
"If we find that this variant in HER4 is important either in the formation or progression of cancer in golden retrievers, or if it can actually modify a cancer risk in this cancer predisposed population, that may be something that can be used in future cancer studies in humans," he said.More than 300 golden retrievers were part of the study. Researchers compared the DNA from blood samples of golden retrievers that were alive at 14 years of age to those that died before age 12.
The study also found the gene variant seemed to be most important to the longevity of female dogs compared to male dogs. HER4 has been shown to interact with hormones such as estrogen and may also play a role in processing environmental toxins. Rebhun said the next step is to enroll a larger population of golden retrievers in a study to see if they can reproduce these results and discover how this genetic variant may impact expression or function of the gene.
Malaysia Latest News, Malaysia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
BNP peptide a culprit in eczema | ScienceDailyResearchers have pinpointed a particular peptide's role in activating atopic dermatitis, or eczema. The work could lead to more effective treatments for the condition.
Read more »
Researchers confirm postpartum depression heritability, home in on treatment mechanismResearchers have conducted a large-scale meta-analyses of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) to investigate the genetic architecture of PPD.
Read more »
Researchers urge: It's high time for alliances to ensure supply chain securityGovernments and companies emphasize the importance of protecting themselves from disruptions. Yet, they hesitate to share data with each other. But why should they embrace the idea of building a supply chain mapping alliance? There are several compelling reasons for this.
Read more »
Researchers discover a 320-mph jet stream around Jupiter’s equatorResearchers have used data from the James Webb Space Telescope to uncover a new feature of Jupiter's dramatic and turbulent atmosphere.
Read more »
Your diabetes risk may double if you eat this food twice a week, say Harvard researchersJust two servings of red meat per week can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, a study found. Substituting plant-based proteins was linked to a reduced diabetes risk.
Read more »
– Researchers Detail How Disorder Alters Quantum Spin LiquidsScience, Space and Technology News 2023
Read more »