LRP8

The LRP8 gene provides instructions for making a protein called Low–Density Lipoprotein Receptor–Related Protein 8 (aka Apolipoprotein E receptor 2). This receptor is involved in long-term potentiation, which is important in learning and memory. While there is currently little evidence it impacts racing performance, there is some evidence a mutation that changes the amino acid glutamine (Q) to histidine (H) is under positive selection in homing pigeons, with HH being the preferred genotype. Since the HH genotype is more common in racing pigeons, it could be a factor to take into consideration when breeding racing pigeons.

Accepted Sample Type(s)

  • Feathers

Testing Prices

Cost: $13 per test

Note: If you run 3 or more tests on one sample, each test is $11.

Rush testing is available.

Test Results

Gene Check Results Result Explanation
QQ This pigeon carries two copies of the Q allele and will always pass a Q onto its offspring.
QH This pigeon carries one copy of the Q allele and one copy of the H allele. It will pass the H allele onto its offspring approximately 50% of the time. The H allele is more common in racing pigeons.
HH This pigeon carries two copies of the H allele and will always pass an H allele onto its offspring. The H allele is more common in racing pigeons.

(includes pricing and shipping information)

Results are reported rapidly and confidentially and are typically available 3-5 business days from receipt of samples. Sequential testing and large lots, particularly during the Spring busy season, may require somewhat longer turnaround times.

Rush service is available for an extra fee of $10 per test per sample. Rush results are available 1-2 business days after receiving the sample. Rush testing is not available for blood cards.

Results will be emailed to the address provided on the testing submission form. Individual certificates are available upon request.

We store extracted DNA samples for 5 years.  Therefore, additional testing can be done from that stored DNA.  Just give us a call or email us with the information on the sample/ samples for which you would like to run additional tests.

ALL GENE CHECK RESULTS ARE CERTIFIED