SCWT Call for Samples
Ostrander Canine Genomics Laboratory
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Hemangiosarcoma & Transitional Cell Carcinoma (TCC) in the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
The Ostrander Laboratory at the National Human Genome Research Institute at NIH and its many collaborators are conducting research on the genetic susceptibility to both hemangiosarcoma and transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) in the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier (SCWT). These are devastating diseases with genetic underpinnings and our ultimate goal is to identify the genetic variants responsible for susceptibility to each.
The Ostrander Lab is soliciting blood samples from the following dogs for our research. We seek samples from all dogs with a diagnosis of hemangiosarcoma or TCC. In addition, we seek DNA from dogs over the age of ten who have never had cancer.
If your dog meets one of these criteria, please contact Donna Viglietti, Ostrander Lab Samples Manager, for a sampling kit at or 301-451-9390.
Each kit contains a one page consent form, a pair of vials for collecting 5-10 cc of blood at your veterinarian’s office, and instructions for handling the blood. The collection kit comes in a small cardboard mailer tube that protects the blood vials. A return address label is included so that the forms and blood can be sent back to the lab conveniently. Blood can be mailed at room temperature without cold packs.
All genetic and contact information collected for each dog will remain confidential. Specifically, your participation in the study, your dog’s pedigree, health information you provide, and any data we produce from your dog’s DNA sample will not be disclosed to any breeders, club personnel, the AKC, or the AKC Canine Health Foundation.
The sample you provide will be instrumental in helping to identify the genomic mutations associated with these diseases. Every sample is precious and provides researchers with new and unique genetic information. Only when the genetic cause of each disease is determined can steps be taken toward the development of better treatments and ultimately their prevention.
Thank you in advance for your time and effort. Our work would not be possible without the participation of responsive owners and club members like you. Please contact Donna Viglietti by phone or email with any questions or concerns you may have.
Ostrander Canine Genomics Lab
Cancer Genetics Branch
National Human Genome Research Institute
National Institutes of Health
50 South Drive, Bldg. 50, Room 5347
Bethesda MD 20892-8000
(301) 402-8625 / (301) 594-0023 fax
About The Ostrander Lab
The Ostrander lab has been a leader in the field of canine genetics since its inception over 15 years ago. We built the first linkage map of the dog and completed at least five iterations that have brought us to a map of over 4500 markers. Our lab has published more than 90 papers on canine genetics and wrote the white paper that resulted in the multi-million dollar canine genome sequence completed in 2005. We currently have active projects focused on finding genes for several types of cancer, hip dysplasia, Addison’s disease, osteoarthritis and a variety of complex physical traits. Finally, we are interested in understanding the architecture of the canine genome and the historical relationships between breeds.
12/2006 (Updated contacts & formatted for web 02/2010)
