AKC Canine Health Foundation & GME research

To help donate to GME research, please check out the link below to see my Heroes for Health Research page I created. 

http://k9hf.convio.net/site/TR/Events/General?pxfid=1180&fr_id=1062&pg=fund

Below is a new research project for finding a cause of MUE/GME through a grant provided by the Canine Health Foundation. I have been in touch with the neurologist heading this project. I told him I wanted to help any way possible with his study! He needs NEWLY diagnosed cases, less than 1 week and an MRI must have been performed. If anyone fits this description, please email me at jaimeschultz10@gmail.com. 

01731: Potential association between altered gut microbiota and development of meningoencephalomyelitis of unknown etiology (MUE) in dogs

Grant Status: Open

Grant Amount: $31,104

Dr. Nick Jeffery, BVSc, Iowa State University

January 1, 2013 - December 31, 2014

Breed(s): Chihuahua, Dachshund, Maltese, Miniature Pinscher, Miniature Poodle, Pug, West Highland White Terrier, Yorkshire Terrier

Disease(s): Meningoencephalitis

Abstract

This project is aimed at finding a cause of 'meningoencephalomyelitis of unknown etiology', otherwise known as 'MUE', which is a summary term for diseases such as 'GME'. This group of conditions causes serious neurologic disease in dogs, especially small breeds, including blindness, loss of balance, seizures and paralysis - but the cause is currently unknown. A recent experimental breakthrough has incriminated bacteria in the digestive system as triggers for a similar disease in laboratory mice and rats. The main purpose of this project is to find out whether imbalances in the number or type of digestive system bacteria might also be a cause for MUE in dogs. If it was to be true it would open a whole new avenue of approach to treatment of affected dogs and might also produce information useful for treating neurologic disease in humans. To carry out this investigation we will analyze fecal samples collected from affected dogs for their content of bacteria. We will then compare the numbers and type of bacteria with those we find in fecal samples from unaffected dogs. Because we will be examining many dogs with MUE we will also be able to ask owners other questions about their dogs' recent medications and medical history to determine whether there are other risk factors that might be associated with MUE.

http://www.akcchf.org/research/funded-research/1731.html