research studies

research studies » current studies

In 2008, Morris Animal Foundation will fund nearly 200 new and continuing studies for dogs, cats, horses, llamas/alpacas, and wildlife as well as more than 40 veterinary student projects.

We also have numerous studies nearing completion. You can search our current study database by species and/or disease to learn more about the studies we are funding in the areas you care most about. The results will also show you whether a study is available for sponsorship.

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D06CA-062: Sex Hormones in the Development and Diagnosis of Canine Hyperadrenocorticis

principal investigator: Ellen N. Behrend, VMD, PhD, Auburn University

Co-sponsors: anonymous; Gertrude Lanman, in loving memory of Valaki

needs sponsorship

Year: 2 of 2. $53,827

Hyperadrenocorticism (HAC), also known as Cushing's disease, is one of the most common endocrine diseases of older dogs. It occurs when the adrenal gland secretes too much cortisol, causing excessive eating, drinking and urinating; lethargy; abdominal enlargement; panting; obesity; muscle weakness and recurrent urinary infections. Current diagnostic tests aren't reliable and can lead to false diagnosis and then inappropriate treatment. A new test that measures sex hormone concentrations in the dog's blood is currently being used; however, the researchers theorize that increased sex hormone levels may not always predict disease. They will evaluate this new test to determine whether it can accurately diagnose HAC in dogs.

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