Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA-rcd1) is a hereditary disease which can be tested with a DNA test. A disease belongs to the group of a progressive retinal atrophy and it occurs at Irish setters. A rapid degeneration of the photoreceptor cells in the eye characterizes the disease. The first changes of the retina already occur two weeks after birth and they are already obvious one month after the birth. Until the age of one year, almost all off the photoreceptor cells (rods and plugs) are degenerated and that leads to the blindness. Population studies have shown that approximately 8% of the Irish Setters are carries for the hereditary disease. 

Inheritance: autosomal recessive - read more

Mutation:  PDE6B1 gene

Genetic test: The method used for genetic testing is extremely accurate and allows complete differentiation between affected animals, carriers and healthy dogs. DNA testing can be done at any age. 

Disease control: read more

DNA test sample: EDTA whole blood (1.0 ml) or buccal swabs. Detailed information about sampling can be found here.