Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis 8, NCL 8

CLN8, Australian Shepherd Variant

Multisystem

This condition affects how cells recycle waste. When waste accumulates, nerve cells are damaged, resulting in neurological signs that typically begin in younger dogs and worsen over time.

Signs and symptoms

Common symptoms reflect central nervous system malfunction and include partial or total vision loss, behavior changes, abnormal gait, and seizures. Symptoms usually progress slowly over time.

Age of onset appears to be approximately one to two years of age.

Diagnosis

NCL is definitively diagnosed through genetic testing or examination of central nervous system (CNS) tissues after the affected dog is deceased. Clinical signs of this disease may mimic many other CNS diseases, so examination by a veterinarian or veterinary neurologist is required. Advanced imaging (CT or MRI scan) and/or spinal taps may be performed to rule out other diseases.

Treatment

What to do if your dog is at risk

Talk to your vet about your dog’s NCL result so you can work together to plan ongoing care and monitoring. Note any changes in their coordination, mobility, or behavior.

Keep your dog’s environment calm and consistent. Use slings, harnesses, or supportive devices as needed to help with mobility, and place rugs or mats on slippery floors to prevent falls.

Encourage gentle, food-based activities such as treat searches or puzzle toys to help your dog stay mentally engaged without overexertion.

Help your dog feel secure by keeping furniture in familiar places, using non-slip mats, and maintaining predictable daily routines.

Genetic information

A mutation in the CLN8 gene was was first identified in an Australian Shepherd-Blue Heeler mixed breed dog, and later identified in a number of purebred Australian Shepherds. CLN8 belongs to a family of proteins known to function in lipid synthesis and transport. Unlike many proteins that cause NCL, CLN8 is found in the endoplasmic reticulum and likely participates in the shuttling of lipoproteins out of the endoplasmic reticulum.

Penetrance: This disease is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, meaning that affected dogs must have two copies of the mutation to show clinical signs.

Gene: CLN8
Inheritance type: recessive
Clinical category: Multisystem