BusterAlert.org Canine MDR1 Mutation MDR1 Veterinary Fact Sheet Info Center
The multi-drug resistance gene (MDR1) encodes P-glycoprotein, a protein that functions as a drug-transport pump across cell membranes. A lack of P-glycoprotein means certain drugs cannot be absorbed, distributed or metabolized normally (particularly affecting the brain). Dogs with the MDR1 genetic mutation have a P-glycoprotein deficiency and are extremely susceptible to toxicosis from many common drugs.
Affected Breeds The MDR1 mutation has been documented in many herding breeds and some sight hounds. The breeds affected by the MDR1 mutation (frequency %) is shown below. Approximate Frequency MDR1 Mutation Test The Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) at Washington State University has developed a commercially available test for the MDR1 mutation. Any dog of any breed can be tested via DNA collected from a cheek swab. Results are reported as homozygous for the normal MDR1 allele (normal/normal), heterozygous (mutant/normal), or homozygous for the mutant MDR1 allele (mutant/mutant). Dogs carrying the mutant gene or dogs from affected breeds that have not been tested for the mutation should not be given any of the MDR1 problem drugs – the exception being heartworm preventative, which is deemed safe when administered in the proper dosage. Order a testing kit by contacting the Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory at Washington State University:or by phone at 509-335-3745. Problem Drugs The most serious adverse drug reactions involve several antiparasitic agents (ivermectin, milbemycin, and related drugs), the over-the-counter antidiarrheal agent loperamide (Imodium), and several anticancer drugs (vincristine, doxorubicin, and others). These drug sensitivities result from a mutation in the multidrug resistance gene (MDR1 gene).
For the most up-to-date version of the MDR1 Problem Drug List, visit the WSU Problem Drug List website.
BusterAlert is a project of Mini Aussie Rescue & Support (MARS) www.miniaussierescue.org BusterAlert.org MDR1 Problem Drugs List Canine MDR1 Mutation Info Center with North American Brand & Trade Names Dogs who test as having a mutated MDR1 gene OR dogs from affected breeds who have not been tested for the mutation should avoid these drugs. Drug names in bold are the generic drugs identified as problems by the MDR1 researchers. Below each generic drug is a list of some of the synonyms, brand, and trade names for the generic drug provided by BusterAlert.org. More drugs are likely to be added as MDR1 research progresses.
Drugs Affected by the MDR1 Gene Mutation Acepromazine Ivermectin Loperamide Milbemycin Moxidectin Ribampin Butorphanol Selamectin Vinblastine Doxorubicin Vincristine Erythromycin This list is not inclusive. For more information and updates on the Problem Drug List, see To find more generic and brand names of these drugs, see BusterAlert is a project of Mini Aussie Rescue & Support (MARS) www.miniaussierescue.org
SYMPOSIUM: Mitochondrial Encephalomyopathies Mitochondrial Respiratory Chain Diseases and Mutations in Nuclear DNA: A Promising Start? Carolyn M. Sue1 and Eric A. Schon1,2 units of the various respiratory chain complexes (Figure1). Each complex of the respiratory chain also containsDepartments of 1Neurology and of 2Genetics and Develop-subunits encoded by nuclear genes, which are assem-
The comprehensive guide to threadworms/pinworms General facts : Threadworms or pinworms (Enterobius vermicularis) are an extremely common intestinal parasitic infection, particularly among schoolchildren. They are much more common than head lice but much less talked about as parents often find this embarrassing due to their location in the rectum/anus. While they may be bothersome