Measuring Gait Abnormalities in Dystrophin-Deficient Dogs
Author Information
Author(s): Barthélémy Inès, Barrey Eric, Aguilar Pablo, Uriarte Ane, Le Chevoir Matthias, Thibaud Jean-Laurent, Voit Thomas, Blot Stéphane, Hogrel Jean-Yves
Primary Institution: Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort
Hypothesis
Can gait variables reflect disease evolution in GRMD dogs during growth?
Conclusion
The study found that gait variables in GRMD dogs can be monitored to detect early gait disorders and track disease progression.
Supporting Evidence
- Speed and stride length in GRMD dogs were significantly lower than in healthy dogs from 2 months of age.
- Total power of gait was significantly decreased in GRMD dogs as early as 2 months.
- Principal component analysis showed that gait patterns in GRMD dogs progressively worsened with age.
Takeaway
The researchers studied how dogs with a muscle disease walk as they grow up, finding that their walking changes early on, even if they look fine.
Methodology
The study evaluated 6 healthy and 12 GRMD dogs using a 3D-accelerometer to measure gait variables twice monthly from 2 to 9 months of age.
Potential Biases
The study may be subject to bias due to the subjective nature of clinical scoring and the non-standardized speed of gait.
Limitations
Some dogs died before completing the study, and the variability in individual responses may complicate data interpretation.
Participant Demographics
6 healthy golden retriever dogs and 12 male GRMD dogs, all housed in the same facilities.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website