Recently Funded Study

I received information about a recently funded study to be done into the immunopathology of Familial Shar-Pei Fever/Amyloidosis in the Shar-Pei by Dr. Anne Avery at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital at Colorado State University. Acute phase cytokines IL-1b, TNFa, IL-6 and IL-10, and the acute phase proteins C-reactive protein and serum amyloid A will be measured. The goals of the study will be to develop a specific biological test for identifying individuals susceptible to FSF and to aid in the diagnosis of FSF. A second goal will be to study the immune system function of Shar-Pei dogs. This will better characterize immunodeficiency disorders in the breed. Currently there are enough participants in the study but I will keep everyone posted especially if additional samples are needed. Studies such as this are very important and necessary to try to understand the mechanism of Familial Shar-Pei Fever. Hopefully the information generated will help in the development of a test to screen breeding stock for FSF and thus breed away from it. I know the CSPCA Charitable Trust and the AKC Canine Health Foundation are involved in funding the study.