Man’s best friend could cure him of epilepsy
Published: January 9, 2005
Epileptics may soon benefit from new treatments after the latest discovery of scientists about why the condition is common in some dog breeds.
An international team revealed in the journal ‘Science’ that pure-bred miniature wirehaired dachshunds, which suffer a form of epilepsy similar to one called Lafora disease in humans, share a mutation in a gene.
“Our discovery can now help to eliminate the disease by being able to diagnose carrier and affected dogs even at birth. We are learning from some successful experiences in helping to reduce the severity of seizures in the dogs and applying them to humans,” The Daily Mail quoted Dr Berge Minassian of the Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, as saying.
The study of various dog breeds will, therefore, prove a valuable testing ground for new drugs to treat epilepsy patients, added Minassian.
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