Animal Research Minute – Genetic Link to Epilepsy Discovered

Did you know scientists may have discovered a gene responsible for a type of epilepsy?
 

Well, ScienceDaily reports researchers have discovered a gene in Belgian Shepherds that is responsible for canine epilepsy. By comparing the genomes of normal dogs and dogs with epilepsy, scientists discovered this gene dramatically increases a dog’s risk of epilepsy. This gene may also be linked to human forms of epilepsy – a disease affecting between 1 and 5 percent of all people. By understanding a genetic cause of epilepsy, scientists can develop more effective treatments for human and canine epilepsy.
 

Read more: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/03/120323205337.htm