Why choose WSU for MDR1 testing
Cats and dogs with a mutation in what is known as the MDR1 (multidrug resistance 1) gene can have severe adverse reactions to many common medications, including those frequently used to treat and prevent parasites like heartworms.
Fortunately, Washington State University offers accurate genetic testing to determine if your pet has the feline or canine MDR1 mutation.
How much does the MDR1 test cost?
WSU offers medical diagnostic quality MDR1 genotyping with rapid turn-around and pharmacology consulting for $70. When your pet’s MDR1 genotype is determined by WSU, you can access our online portal, where questions regarding medications for that pet can be submitted directly to a board-certified veterinary pharmacologist.
Why are some MDR1 tests less expensive?
When deciding where to send your pet’s DNA sample for MDR1 testing, pet owners should read the fine print before having their pet tested by just any company. Many companies specifically state that their results are not intended to be used for the basis of a medical diagnosis or treatment, so while less expensive, they are not useful medically.
WSU provides a medically relevant MDR1 genotype result, not a “screening” test like many other genetic testing companies. WSU is also the only testing service that provides qualified clinical pharmacology counseling through an online portal for its clients.
WSU offers a rapid turnaround time if a pet requires treatment with chemotherapy. WSU offers testing using either a cheek swab sample or blood test. Cheek swabs are an easy way for dog or cat owners to collect DNA samples in their own homes, while blood samples are often preferred by veterinary clinics and hospitals. Results are available Wednesday afternoon Pacific time for samples received in the laboratory the previous Monday.
How does the online portal work?
Once we have determined your pet’s MDR1 genotype at WSU, we will still be there to assist you and your pet through our online portal, which can easily be accessed through our website.
The portal will allow you or your veterinarian to communicate directly with veterinary pharmacologist Dr. Katrina Mealey, who discovered the MDR1 genetic mutation in dogs and cats, and our team to determine the best course of action should your pet need to be treated with a medication known to cause adverse reactions in animals with the mutation.
Dr. Mealey is the founding director of the Program in Individualized Medicine at WSU and is recognized as a global expert in veterinary pharmacogenetics.