How a Tiny Gene Change Can Affect Your Pet's Health

Cats and dogs have a special protein called MDR1. This protein acts like a bouncer, controlling which drugs can enter the brain. It's crucial because it keeps harmful drugs like ivermectin out of the brain, preventing toxic reactions. In some pets, a tiny change in the MDR1 gene can cause big problems. This mutation makes the protein stop working. As a result, drugs that should be kept out can now enter the brain, leading to serious side effects. A recent study looked at 800 cats in Germany. They found that about 0. 625% of these cats had the faulty MDR1 gene. This means that while rare, the mutation is still something pet owners should be aware of.Scientists also tested how well the normal and faulty MDR1 proteins work. They used special cells and a glowing substance called rhodamine 123. The normal MDR1 proteins successfully kicked out the glowing substance. But the faulty ones? They didn't do their job at all. The study also found that several drugs can interfere with the MDR1 protein. This includes common medications like verapamil and even some antiparasitic drugs. This shows that MDR1 is involved in more than just keeping ivermectin out of the brain. So, what does this mean for pet owners? It's important to know if your pet has the MDR1 mutation. If they do, you'll need to be extra careful with certain medications. Always talk to your vet about any concerns.