Developmental duplications (DD)

Developmental duplication (DD) was described in 2013, prior to which the condition was believed to be the result of anomalies associated with foetal development or conjoined twins.

The condition most notably in its extreme form produces polymelia, the presence of extra limbs or part there of, typically from the shoulder or neck region. DD however is also associated with a number of other pathological phenotypes which result from the varied expression of the disease. The variation seen in the expression of DD means the condition can for some animals require minor surgery, whilst being lethal in others. The following are associated with DD;

• Polymelia
• Axial duplication
• Intradural embryogenic teratomas
• Dermoid cysts and occipital skin flaps
• Lipomas
• Craniofacial dysmorphogenesis
• Craniofacial duplication
• Body wall closure defects
• Congenital arthrogryposis and hindlimb deformity
• Post-natal ataxia
• Embryonic deaths

DD is controlled by a simple recessive mutation.

Further reading 

Angus Australia acknowledges the funds provided by the Australian Government through the Meat & Livestock Australia Donor Company (MDC).  

This resource was created as a result of a collaboration between Angus Australia and Meat & Livestock Australia Donor Company (MDC) (Project P.PSH.1063).