A new abstract on the current status of the Canadian genome work on syringomyelia in cavaliers is now available:
http://tinyurl.com/35lem9e
In simple terms, this states that researchers have identified an area on the cavalier genome that is highly likely to be the genetic site for SM (not just CM but specifically, SM), and that this area is unaffected in clear dogs. The continuing work right now on this project is to hone in on the fine mapping of the genes -- to determine in as much detail as possible, exactly where this is happening, and better understand how and why.
Researchers continue to seek dogs over 6 who have a pedigree and have been MRId already -- they would value these scans from anywhere in the world, whatever the result. They are also looking for dogs over 6 with a pedigree (or registered) in the UK that have no symptoms and that might be fully clear of SM. There is potential funding to have such dogs scanned for research through Rupert's Fund. Donations to this fund are also very welcome, of any size, as it all adds up towards another scan! More information on donating, the project, contacting the researchers, and eligible dogs, is at:
www.rupertsfund.com. So far over £3,600 (over $5,000) has been raised in recent months and 14 dogs have been scanned. Of these, 9 were A grade dogs and 5 had SM. Of the 9 A grade dogs, 5 were fully clear of SM and have been especially helpful to this latter-stage fine-mapping research. Three more dogs identified as promising are awaiting scans once more funds are raised and available!