Genetics
For our beloved pets, genetic research presents major opportunity. Applying genetics and genomics to better understand which animals are at risk for certain diseases can lead to more-advanced diagnostic tests and gene therapies that improve our pets’ health.
Researchers in our genetics program study genetically passed diseases in dogs and cats, and other animals, in an attempt to understand the changes in the DNA sequence that lead to those diseases. Because many canine and feline diseases are inherited, understanding their molecular causes allows breeders to select against them and owners to get a diagnosis faster; veterinarians can run a DNA test in 24 hours. The impact on animal health is significant.