Disease overview

Hypomyelination is an inherited nervous system disease that causes defective neuronal axons. Myelin is crucial for relaying information across great distances on nerves. Defective neurons create a delay of information relay between the brain and the body.

Gene name

FNIP2

Inheritance

Autosomal recessive

Signs and symptoms

Early-onset symptoms present in puppyhood. These may include tremors, weak muscles, and loss of limb control.

How is it diagnosed

A veterinarian will conduct a thorough exam, including a review of health history and any clinical signs. Neurological tests, including imaging, may be required for a definitive diagnosis. Genetic testing is necessary to determine an underlying genetic cause.

Breeds at higher risk

Citations

Pemberton TJ, Choi S, Mayer JA, Li FY, Gokey N, Svaren J, Safra N, Bannasch DL, Sullivan K, Breuhaus B, Patel PI, Duncan ID. A mutation in the canine gene encoding folliculin-interacting protein 2 (FNIP2) associated with a unique disruption in spinal cord myelination. Glia. 2014 Jan;62(1):39-51. doi: 10.1002/glia.22582. PMID: 24272703; PMCID: PMC4026025.

Millán Y, Mascort J, Blanco A, Costa C, Masian D, Guil-Luna S, Pumarola M, Martin de Las Mulas J. Hypomyelination in three Weimaraner dogs. J Small Anim Pract. 2010 Nov;51(11):594-8. doi: 10.1111/j.1748-5827.2010.00997.x. PMID: 20973788.

Disclaimer

Disease diagnosis and treatment should always be performed by a veterinarian. The following information is for educational purposes only.