PCR detection of multidrug resistance 1 (MDR1) gene mutation in dogs presented at the University of the Philippines Veterinary Teaching Hospital

Abstract

The multidrug resistance 1 (MDR1) gene codes for the p-glycoprotein (P-gp) efflux transporter function to limit the entry of certain xenobiotics, P-gp substrate drugs, in various physiological barriers of the body but most importantly in the blood-brain barrier. Mutation of the MDR1 gene results in a severely truncated P-gp that can lead to adverse drug reactions in patients treated with P-gp substrate drugs. This study aims to determine the presence of the mutation in the dogs presented to. Results revealed that many dogs possess the MDR1 gene mutation, with many possessing at least one copy of the mutation. The study discovers the mutation in two breeds and further proves the presence of the mutation in the German Shepherd dog. Furthermore, a large percentage of mixed breeds and Aspins carry at least one copy of the mutation. Although no adverse drug reactions have been reported, caution is still advised when treating patients with P-gp substrate drugs.