Validation of a Genomic Marker for Necrotizing Meningoencephalitis in Pugs
ClosedEthos Discovery de novo study
Description
Single Day Clinic on March 7, 2020
Necrotizing meningoencephalitis (NME) in pugs is a severe neurological disease that is typically progressive and often only shows symptoms after significant damage to the brain has taken place. Ethos Discovery is pursuing an investigation into the use of a novel therapy for NME in pugs. This trial will be utilizing a previously defined genetic mutation to identify pugs that are at risk for developing NME. Once identified, these pugs will receive the novel therapy before the onset of symptoms to see if it prolongs the time until symptoms develop or perhaps even prevents the disease altogether. Prior to this trial Ethos Discovery will be collecting blood samples from clinically normal pugs to validate the genetic assay and to better define the prevalence of this mutation in a given population of pugs.
This study will only consist of a one-time visit for the blood sample collection. Participating pugs will get free wellness and neurological exams, general bloodwork, and NME-risk factor screening.
Hear more about the process and the study:
Dr. Rebecca Windsor, DACVIM (Neurology) was recently hosted on the Bark n Wag podcast where she discussed Pug Dog Encephalitis and this clinical trial where we hope to improve outcomes for pugs diagnosed with this disease. To learn more about Necrotizing meningoencephalitis (NME), and to hear about the amazing work Dr. Windsor and others are accomplishing with this trial, click the link.
This brain disorder causes inflammation of the brain tissues that causes pain, seizures, and ultimately death.
Eligibility criteria
- Pugs that are less than 8 years old.
- Pugs that are considered healthy with no symptoms of neurological disease.
Interested?
Enroll or request more information below