| This page is for reference & information only. RRI/VGR1 is not associated with Laboklin. They do provide a excellent service. |
Basic Overview
Laboklin started offering a “Megacolon” test for rabbits in mid-2023. This test, identified as ID# 8810, detects the mutation in the KIT gene, which causes a dilated colon, impaired intestinal motility, digestive problems, and decreased viability in rabbits with the homozygous English spotting coat color. Laboklin is an accredited specialist laboratory for veterinary diagnostics with facilities across Europe, and they accept samples from the US and many other countries.
The KIT gene, often referred to as the “English spotting gene” in rabbits, is responsible for the mutation causing Megacolon (Italian 2014 study). This gene encodes a protein that is part of the receptor tyrosine kinase family, which plays a crucial role in signal transduction from the cell surface to the inside of the cell. This signaling is essential for various cellular processes, including growth and development.
The test looks specifically for the "mutation" that occures when the rabbit inherits two of the dominant version of the English spotting "genes" En/En (KIT). A positive result can be very helpfull to help eliminate other incorrect diagnoses. It can also help you and your rabbit savvy-vet put together a plan of care, quicker. Until now vets would rely the amount on fur color, odd shape poops, and repeat GI events to make an educated guess if the rabbit did have genetic MC. The test can not tell you if or when MC events will happen or how severe events could be as each case/rabbit is different.
| Usage | Dominant | Recessive | Notes |
| Laboklin | MC | N | Laboklin uses MC & N as it's more in line with their other reports & is more user friendly |
| Common Usage |
En | en | |
| Older German | K | k | Older German studies reference the English spotting gene with a "K" |
| Older Breeder | Es | es | Older breeder info (& ARBA) reference the English spotting gene with a "Es" |
The Sample Test Kit
Laboklin has labs all over Europe. The quickest turn around time from the US is the UK lab, located in Manchester. They will mail you a free test kit and directions you must follow. Our test kit was sent from Manchester and arrived on the West Coast of the US 6 days later.
PRICE: Laboklin will send you the test kit for free. You must pay postage send the samples back to the UK. The test itself is currently ~$77 USD. The results can be sent by mail (for an extra fee) or by e-mail. Please check the "MC Test page" for current prices and directions.
BLOOD: For genetic testing, they need a DNA sample. This can be provided as a 0.5 - 1 mL tube of whole blood in an EDTA blood tube, this must be done by a veterinary surgeon. EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) is often used in blood collection tubes to prevent blood from clotting by binding to calcium ions.
BUCCAL SWAB: They will also take a buccal swab, requires 2 swab samples per rabbit. The sample can be taken by a vet or owner. A buccal swab is a method used to collect DNA from the cells on the inside of the rabbit's cheek. This involves gently rubbing a sterile cotton swab against the inner cheek to capture cells that contain DNA. It’s a non-invasive, painless, and easy way to obtain a DNA sample for genetic testing.
Test Requirements and Recommendations
| Laboklin DNA sample collection (directions) |
