- UC Davis researchers identified a RESF1 gene variant strongly associated with Addison’s disease in dogs
- Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers show a high inherited risk, often developing the disease at a young age
- The condition frequently occurs alongside other autoimmune disorders in dogs
- The RESF1 gene is similar across species, including humans, but has not previously been linked to the disease
- Findings suggest potential for new research into human Addison’s disease and autoimmune syndromes
- A genetic test is now available to help breeders reduce disease incidence
Researchers at the University of California, Davis have identified a genetic variant associated with Addison’s disease in dogs, a discovery that could have implications for both veterinary and human medicine.
Genetic breakthrough in canine Addison’s disease
The study focused on Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers, a breed with a notably high incidence of Addison’s disease—an endocrine disorder in which the adrenal glands fail to produce sufficient hormones such as cortisol and aldosterone. The condition is believed to be autoimmune in origin and often appears early in life in affected dogs.
The research team, led by Dr. Danika Bannasch at the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, identified a variant in the RESF1 gene that is strongly associated with the disease in this breed. Juvenile-onset cases are particularly severe, with affected dogs often succumbing within two years despite treatment.
Implications for autoimmune disease research
Addison’s disease in dogs frequently occurs alongside other autoimmune conditions, forming part of what is known as multiple autoimmune syndrome. This makes affected dogs a potentially valuable natural model for studying complex immune-mediated diseases.
The RESF1 gene is highly conserved across species, including humans, but has not previously been linked to Addison’s disease or related autoimmune disorders in people. Researchers suggest the findings could position RESF1 as a new candidate gene for investigation in human cases.
Advancing prevention and breeding strategies
In addition to its research implications, the discovery has practical applications for canine health management. A genetic test developed through the UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory is now available to help breeders identify carriers and reduce the risk of producing affected dogs.
Collaborative research effort
The study, published in Scientific Reports, involved a multidisciplinary team of researchers from UC Davis and international collaborators, with support from multiple organizations including the Morris Animal Foundation and the National Institutes of Health.
The findings highlight the growing role of comparative genomics in advancing both veterinary care and human medical research.
Information sourced from the university’s press release.
