A simple behavior test for measuring olfactory performance and GWAS to identify associated genetic markers

Abstract

Olfaction is the oldest of the vertebrate special senses and yet remains the least understood. In nearly all mammals, it plays vital roles in detecting threats and finding food, water, and potential mates. Domestic dogs represent an ideal species to better understand the mechanisms that determine olfactory functions and abilities. Olfactory sensitivity in canines is determined by genetic, neurological, physiological and developmental factors. In the present project, we propose to assess olfactory performances in dogs using a behavioral assay and subsequently these dogs participate in a genome-wide association study (GWAS) to determine the quantitative traits and genetic variation (to be performed by Prof. Robert Wayne s laboratory, UCLA, California, USA, which has considerable experience in canine genomics). To our knowledge this is a unique attempt to look at the genetic component of olfactory performance in dogs.

Document Details

Document Type
DoD Grant Award
Publication Date
Aug 20, 2019
Source ID
N000141912512

Entities

People

  • Ádám Miklósi

Organizations

  • Eötvös Loránd University
  • Office of Naval Research
  • United States Navy

Tags

Fields of Study

  • Biology

Readers

  • Molecular Genetics
  • Research Science/Academic Research
  • Vision Science/Vision Psychology/Cognitive Neuroscience.

Technology Areas

  • Biotechnology