Glomerulopathy in Airedale Terriers and Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers

Glomerulopathy is a kidney disease that affects the glomeruli – filtration units responsible for removing waste products from the blood and retaining essential proteins in the body. When glomeruli become damaged, proteins (especially albumin) begin to leak into the urine, a condition known as proteinuria. Early symptoms may be very subtle — increased drinking and urination, gradual weight loss, reduced energy, vomiting, or diarrhea. As the disease progresses, swelling, fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity (ascites), hypoalbuminaemia, hypercholesterolaemia, and progressive loss of kidney function can occur, potentially leading to kidney failure. Complications may also include high blood pressure and an increased risk of thrombosis.

In Airedale Terriers and Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers, glomerulopathy has a significant genetic component. It is most frequently associated with mutations in the KIRREL2 (c.1877C>G) and NPHS1 (c.3067G>A) genes. The KIRREL2 gene ensures proper molecular filtration at the glomerular level, while the NPHS1 gene encodes nephrin, a key structural element of the filtration slit. Mutations in these genes disrupt the integrity of the filtration barrier, leading to excessive protein loss into the urine.

However, the genetic basis of glomerulopathy is polygenic and complex, with significant influence from additional genetic variants as well as environmental factors. The disease also shows incomplete penetrance, meaning that not every dog carrying a risk mutation will necessarily develop clinical symptoms. Genetic risk may therefore circulate within a population without visible signs of disease, which is why genetic testing is recommended — it helps reduce the incidence of the disorder in future generations and supports healthy breeding practices.