About PRA Research
Advancing the fight against inherited canine blindness through genetics, education, and responsible breeding.
Our Mission
Progressive Retinal Atrophy Research was created to bridge the gap between veterinary ophthalmology laboratories and the breeders, owners, and veterinarians who need practical, evidence-based information. Too often, groundbreaking research on PRA genetics remains locked in academic journals, inaccessible to the people who could use it to prevent inherited blindness.
Our goal is to translate complex genetic research into clear, actionable guidance. Every article on this site is reviewed for clinical accuracy and written with the practical needs of breeders and dog owners in mind.
Meet Dr. Amanda Foster
Dr. Amanda Foster, DVM, DACVO
Board-Certified Veterinary Ophthalmologist
With over twenty years of clinical experience in veterinary ophthalmology, Dr. Foster has examined thousands of dogs affected by Progressive Retinal Atrophy across more than forty breeds. Her research focus is on genotype-phenotype correlations in PRA variants and the development of practical screening protocols for breeding programs.
After completing her veterinary degree at Cornell University and ophthalmology residency at the University of Pennsylvania, Dr. Foster spent eight years in academic practice before transitioning to a combined clinical and educational role. She serves as a consultant to multiple breed clubs on genetic testing strategies and has contributed to the identification of novel PRA-associated mutations in herding breeds.
Dr. Foster is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists and a member of the International Society of Veterinary Ophthalmology. She lectures regularly at national breed conferences on the intersection of genetic testing and responsible breeding.
What We Cover
PRA Genetics
Detailed profiles of every known PRA gene variant, which breeds are affected, and how each mutation leads to retinal degeneration.
Genetic Testing
Practical guidance on which DNA tests to use, how to interpret results, and how to incorporate testing into breeding decisions.
Breeding Strategies
Evidence-based approaches to carrier management, maintaining genetic diversity while reducing PRA prevalence in breeding lines.
Clinical Research
Updates on gene therapy trials, novel treatments, and emerging research that may change how we manage inherited retinal diseases.
Editorial Standards
Every article published on this site is grounded in peer-reviewed research and clinical evidence. We cite primary sources wherever possible and update content as new findings emerge. Our commitment is to accuracy over sensationalism, nuance over simplification.
If you notice any factual errors or have questions about our content, we welcome feedback from veterinary professionals, geneticists, and breeders working in this field.