Investigation of the Association of the MLPH Gene with Seasonal Canine Flank Alopecia in Rhodesian Ridgeback Dogs

This study examined the genetic basis of seasonal canine flank alopecia (CFA) in Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs, focusing on the MLPH gene. It included 24 CFA-affected and 12 control dogs. Pedigree analysis suggested a genetic component due to inbreeding loops and familial relationships among affected dogs. However, MLPH genotyping revealed no significant association between the MLPH-d allele and CFA, as only a small percentage of affected and control dogs were heterozygous for the allele, with none being homozygous. The study concludes that the MLPH gene is not involved in CFA, and further research is needed to explore other genetic and environmental factors.