Hille Fieten is the coordinator of the Expertise Center for Genetic Veterinary Medicine at Utrecht University. The mission of the Expertise Center for Genetics is the sustainable breeding of healthy dogs and cats, with the ambition to eliminate harmful physical traits and hereditary diseases from pet populations. Preserving or increasing genetic diversity is essential for this goal.
Epidemiological research into the prevalence of diseases and abnormalities in pets is facilitated by the diagnostic registration system PETscan. To eradicate harmful physical traits, scientifically substantiated welfare criteria are formulated, which can be used for education and enforcement of Article 3.4. In this context, the report "Breeding Short-Nosed Dogs" was recently published. Through molecular genetic research in purebred animal populations, causal mutations that lead to biological effects or diseases in animals are identified. The knowledge gained from these mutations provides a better understanding of complex pathophysiological processes.
At the same time, researchers at the Expertise Center for Genetics are developing DNA tests that can be used for breeding healthy pets. To assist breeders in making partner selection decisions for their breeding animals, the Fit2Breed web application is being developed, which can be seen as a dating tool for animals. Using algorithms, scientifically substantiated breeding decisions can be made for both the short and long term. The algorithms combine data on genetic diversity based on SNP markers, results from standardized clinical screening, DNA test outcomes, and pedigree data.
An important branch of the research is the translation of findings from pet populations to humans. There are many similarities in disease patterns between pets and humans. Complexly inherited genetic diseases are challenging to study in humans due to human genetic diversity. Inbred dogs and cats are much less genetically diverse, making them a powerful model system for identifying new disease-causing mutations. Hille Fieten has been awarded a VENI grant to develop translational genetic research in Labrador Retrievers.
The ‘European Board of Veterinary Specialisation’ ( is responsible for the training, examination, and accreditation of veterinary specialists in Europe. An EBVS® European Veterinary Specialist has completed a three-year postgraduate program followed by an examination after studying Veterinary Medicine. The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine employs EBVS specialists from various fields. Additionally, the faculty is a recognized training institute for various specializations. This is how we contribute to high-quality patient care.
