The association of genetic polymorphisms of bone formation genes with canine hip dysplasia

Background: Canine hip dysplasia (CHD) is an orthopedic disorder characterized by abnormal laxity of the hip joint. It is considered multifactorial and polygenic and affects predominantly medium and large sized dog breeds. Aims: The aim of this study was to identify CHD associated polymorphisms in chromosomal regions on CFA19, CFA24, CFA26, and CFA34. Methods: Blood samples from 60 dogs of different breeds were collected and genotyped, including 46 cases and 14 controls. After sequencing and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) determination of the target regions, an individual SNP analysis with a c2 statistic was performed based on the comparison of allele frequencies in cases and controls. Results: A significant association was observed between CHD and a T/C SNP on CFA19, which harbors genes involved in bone metabolism. No other significant association was found in the study and previously identified SNPs cannot be validated as related to CHD. Conclusion: Further research is warranted to identify CHD-associated polymorphisms in order to develop a genotype-based diagnosis and selection approach.