Interbreed variation in serum serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine) concentration in healthy dogs.

Introduction Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine [5-HT]) has several biological functions. In different species, excessive 5-HT has been linked to valvular lesions, similar to those seen in dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease. Previous studies suggest higher 5-HT in healthy Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (CKCSs), a breed highly affected by myxomatous mitral valve disease, compared to other breeds. Objective To investigate potential interbreed variation in serum 5-HT in healthy dogs. Animals 483 healthy dogs of nine breeds aged 1–7 years. Methods Dogs were examined at five European centers. Absence of cardiovascular, organ-related, or systemic diseases was ensured by thorough clinical investigations including echocardiography. Serum was frozen and later analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results Median 5-HT concentration was 252.5 (interquartile range = 145.5–390.6) ng/mL. Overall breed difference was found ( p <0.0001), and 42% of pairwise breed comparisons were significant. Univariate regression analysis showed association between serum 5-HT concentration and breed, center of examination, storage time, and sex, with higher 5-HT in females. In multiple regression analysis, the final model had an adjusted R 2 of 0.27 with breed ( p <0.0001), center ( p <0.0001), and storage time ( p =0.014) remaining significant. Within centers, overall breed differences were found at 3/5 centers ( p ≤0.028), and pairwise comparisons within those centers showed breed differences in 42% of comparisons. Among the included breeds, Newfoundlands, Belgian Shepherds and CKCSs had highest 5-HT concentrations. Conclusions Interbreed variation in serum 5-HT concentration was found in healthy dogs aged 1–7 years. These differences should be taken into account when designing clinical studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]