Canine Multiple System Degeneration (CMSD) – Chinese Crested
Canine Multiple System Degeneration (CMSD) is a progressive neurological disease characterized by degeneration in multiple areas of the central nervous system, particularly the cerebellum, brainstem, and spinal cord. It also affect the caudate nucleus and substantia nigra, which are crucial for motor control. CMSD is caused by an autosomal recessive mutation in the Serine Active Site Containing 1 (SERAC1) gene. Mutations in this gene disrupt mitochondrial function and lipid metabolism, leading to neuronal degeneration and dysfunction. The variant tested here is found in Chinese Crested dogs.