Current Projects

Wheaten-Specific Research

Jablonski Research Program — Evaluating New Diagnostics & Treatments for PLE

Dr. Sara Jablonski is studying how to better diagnose and treat protein-losing enteropathy (PLE) in dogs. Both local and out-of-state clients may participate, as some studies require only 1 clinical visit. Clients whose dogs are part of 1 or more of Jablonski’s studies could save up to $2,500 on clinical services.

If you’re interested in applying for a PLE study with Jablonski, email sjw@msu.edu with information about your dog that will help determine their eligibility.

Please note: Jablonski and her collaborators are looking for dogs who have not seen prior treatment and, most importantly, have not been treated with steroids.

(https://cvm.msu.edu/research/faculty-research/comparative-gastro-intestinal-research/jablonski-laboratory/clinical-study-protein-losing-enteropathy)

SCWT Early Intestinal Disease Marker Study

Wheaten Terriers diagnosed with PLE and healthy Wheaten Terriers are needed for a study with NC State University School of Veterinary Medicine. NCSU is beginning a study it hopes will identify SCWTs with PLE before there are any clinical bloodwork changes. Participation is specific: 8-10 “normal” Wheatens and 8-10 “affected” Wheatens are needed. Testing is done free of charge at NCSU in Raleigh, NC. There are financial incentives. For more information, contact Katie Tolbert DVM at mktolbe2@ncsu.edu.

Participation Information Form

PLN/PLE — Genetic Testing for PLN-Associated Variant Genes Follow-Up Survey

Health survey of DNA-tested dogs to align clinical outcomes with test results and potentially identify dogs whose DNA may be useful in PLE studies.

Researchers: Paula Henthorn PhD BS, Mariah Gentry DVM, University of Pennsylvania
Funded 2019

Research Update Reports Pending

PLN/PLE — Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS)

Whole Genome Sequencing to further refine PLN prediction and identify potential genetic bases for PLE study.

Researcher: Paula Henthorn PhD BS, University of Pennsylvania
Funded 2018 & ongoing

Research Update Reports Pending

PLN/PLE — Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) using SNP chips for Protein Losing Enteropathy (PLE)

Genome Wide Association Studies to identify the chromosomal regions (and genes within these regions) that are associated with PLE or PLN and can then be studied in additional dogs for confirmation.

Researchers: Paula Henthorn, PhD BS, Mariah Gentry DVM, University of Pennsylvania
Committed; not yet funded 2019

Ectopic Ureter

Use of laser ablation techniques on a test case to further understand and expand our knowledge of Ectopic Ureters in the SCWT.

Researcher: Daniel Langlois, BS, DVM, DACVIM, Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Funded 2020