DRD4
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in several crucial bodily functions. To be effective, dopamine attaches to specific receptors called dopamine receptors. In our brain, there are 5 types of these receptors, namely D1 to D5. They mainly affect the behaviour of pigeons. The exact mechanism by which point mutations in the DRD4 gene affect pigeon performance remains to be investigated further.
Two point mutations are tested together on the DRD4 gene: DRD4-1 and DRD4-2. These are displayed on results as 1 result, where the 2 front letters represent DRD4-1 and the 2 back letters represent DRD4-2. The DRD4CTCT variant is significantly more present in the best-performing pigeons. Most double heterozygotes (CTCT individuals) were found among the best-performing pigeons in extremely long-distance races. Literature studies of a Belgian group of racing pigeons showed that 91.59% have the genotype DRD4-1CC and 8.41% have the genotype DRD4-1CT.
- DRD4-1 has a presumed influence on orientation and initiative
- DRD4-2 is thought to affect character and perseverance
Suitable samples
Feathers
- 4–5 freshly plucked breast feathers
- Moulted feathers, down feathers, and blood feathers should be avoided. These sometimes contain insufficient DNA or can cause damage to the feather follicle when pulled out. Blood feathers are new feathers that can be recognized by the blue sheath at the base of the feather.
- To avoid contamination, do not touch the shaft (the end of the feather protruding from the bird’s skin) with your hands.
Blood sample
- Small amounts (capillary tube) are sufficient for an accurate analysis.
- A drop of blood on a coffee filter or paper.
Cheek swab from a nestling
A gentle way to collect DNA from young birds
Note: avoid contamination with food or food scraps
Eggshell with membrane
Have you recently had a nest hatch? If so, save the eggshells. Place the shell, with the dried blood vessels still attached, as completely as possible into a plastic zip-top bag and send it to us.
Turnaround times
- If you send the sample by mail, we will confirm receipt via email.
- Processing time: 5-7 business days from receipt of your sample.
- You will receive an email when your results and certificate are available on your personal portal.
Prices
| Performance genes | Excl. VAT (€) / price per item |
|---|---|
| 1 genotype | € 36,00 |
| 2 genotypes | € 39,00 |
| 3 genotypes | € 42,00 |
| 4 genotypes | € 45,00 |
| 5 genotypes | € 48,00 |
| 6 genotypes | € 51,00 |
| 7 genotypes | € 54,00 |
| 8 genotypes | € 57,00 |
Request a test
STEP 1: Complete the request form
Choose whichever way of filling it in suits you best.
- Excel: fill in digitally.
- PDF: print and fill in by hand.
Then add it to the form below, or send it along with your samples.
STEP 2: Send us your samples
There are several ways to do this
- At our front desk* (during opening hours)
- Through the letterbox* (outside opening hours)
- By post*
- Through your vet
STEP 3: Payment & results
You will receive your invoice as soon as we have received your complete request.
Payment can be made on site*, by bank transfer or through your vet. Once payment is received, we begin the analysis.
You will receive your certified results by email, within the agreed turnaround time, unless stated otherwise.
* Our address: NeorniLab, Beverlosesteenweg 129, 3583 Paal, Belgium