MDR1 gene mutation (drug sensitivity)(MDR1)
Also known as: Multi-Drug Resistance Gene Defect · MDR1 Gene Mutation · Ivermectin Sensitivity · Arzneimittelüberempfindlichkeit beim Hund · Multidrug-Resistenz-1 · …
Overview
What it is
This genetic condition affects the nervous system by impairing the blood-brain barrier, which normally acts as a protective filter for the brain. Due to a missing transport protein, certain common medications can cross this barrier unchecked and accumulate in the brain. This can lead to severe, life-threatening neurological damage.
How it presents
Affected dogs show no symptoms unless they are exposed to specific triggering medications, which can occur at any age. If exposed, owners will notice signs of poisoning such as tremors, loss of coordination, disorientation, or seizures.
Treatment
While the genetic defect itself is lifelong and cannot be cured, it is easily managed by strictly avoiding high-risk drugs. If accidental exposure occurs, emergency veterinary treatment is required and typically costs between 100 and 3,000 EUR.
How it's tested
MDR1 DNA-Test(MDR1)
Primary testDNA testMulti-Drug-Resistance: Anlageträger reagieren empfindlich auf gängige Medikamente. Standard bei Hütehunden.
Issuing body: Labogen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch)(Labogen-Panel)
DNA testRassespezifisches DNA-Panel (Labogen / Laboklin) — bündelt alle relevanten Erbkrankheiten der Rasse in einem Test.
Issuing body: Labogen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch)(Feragen-Panel)
DNA testRassespezifisches DNA-Panel (Feragen, Österreich) — gleiches Konzept wie Labogen.
Issuing body: Feragen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Embark Breed + Health Panel(Embark)
DNA testUS-Anbieter; 250+ genetische Erkrankungen + Abstammung. Anerkennung in DE/AT variiert je nach VDH-Verein.
Issuing body: Embark
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
MyDogDNA Panel(MyDogDNA)
DNA testGenoscoper-basiertes Panel (Mars Petcare). 200+ Erkrankungen + Rassenkomposition.
Issuing body: MyDogDNA
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Affected breeds
20 of 20 breeds
Alpine Herding DogMandatory testMandated by Alpenhütehunde Club Deutschland e.V.
American CollieMandatory testMandated by Club für Amerikanische Collies (CfAC) e.V.
AussiedoodleRecommended standard
Australian Cattle DogRecommended standard
Australian ShepherdMandatory testMandated by Club für Australian Shepherd Deutschland e.V. (CASD)
Border CollieMandatory testMandated by Club für Britische Hütehunde e.V. (CfBrH)
BordoodleRecommended standard
British CollieRecommended standard
Miniature American ShepherdRecommended standard
Rough CollieMandatory testMandated by Club für Britische Hütehunde e.V. (CfBrH)
Shetland SheepdogMandatory testMandated by Club für Britische Hütehunde e.V. (CfBrH)
Silken WindspriteMandatory testMandated by Deutscher Windhundzucht- und Rennverband e.V. (DWZRV)
Smooth CollieMandatory testMandated by Club für Britische Hütehunde e.V. (CfBrH)
WällerRecommended standard
White Swiss Shepherd DogMandatory testMandated by Rassezuchtverein für Weisse Schweizer Schäferhunde e.V. (RWS)
AussiedorAlso recommended
Bohemian ShepherdAlso recommended
Old German Shepherd DogAlso recommended
Cane CorsoOptional
Portuguese SheepdogOptional
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment costs. Actual costs depend on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked questions
What is MDR1 gene mutation (drug sensitivity)?
This genetic condition affects the nervous system by impairing the blood-brain barrier, which normally acts as a protective filter for the brain. Due to a missing transport protein, certain common medications can cross this barrier unchecked and accumulate in the brain. This can lead to severe, life-threatening neurological damage.
How is MDR1 gene mutation (drug sensitivity) tested?
Tests currently in our database: MDR1 DNA-Test, Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Embark Breed + Health Panel, MyDogDNA Panel.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Alpine Herding Dog, American Collie, Aussiedoodle, Australian Cattle Dog, Australian Shepherd, Border Collie, Bordoodle, British Collie.