The genetic similarities of cancer of dead bones between dogs and children have been revealed

A bone cancer known as osteosarcoma is genetically similar in dogs and children, according to the results of a study published today by Tufts University and the University of Ottawa. Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen), a subsidiary of City of Hope. The results could help break the stalemate in the treatment of this deadly disease, which has not experienced a significant medical breakthrough for nearly three decades.

Although osteosarcoma (OS) is rare in children, it is only too prevalent in many breeds of dogs, making it a prime candidate for the type of biology studies. Compared to cancer likely to enhance drug development for children and our canine friends. "

Will Hendricks, Ph.D., badistant professor, TGen's Integrated Division of Genomic Cancer, and one of the lead authors of the study

TGen and Tufts researchers sequenced the genomes of 59 dogs using several molecular level test platforms. Metastatic tumors that spread to other parts of the body.

The results of the study were published today in the journal Nature. Biology of communication.

"These findings pave the way for understanding bone development in dogs and humans, and establish a genomic context for future comparative badyzes," said Cheryl A. London, DVM, Ph. D., Annen and Dusty Professor in Comparative Oncology at Cummings School. Veterinary Medicine of Tufts University and the other lead author of the study.

The study also identified new features of the canine bone, including recurrent and potentially carcinogenic mutations in two genes, SETD2 and DMD. The study suggests that these findings deserve to be explored further.

ES is an aggressive disease and the primary bone tumor most commonly diagnosed in dogs and children. Although it is a relatively rare cancer in humans – with less than 1,000 cases a year – the bone strikes more than 25,000 dogs a year.

Although surgery and chemotherapy may prolong survival, approximately 30% of pediatric patients with ES die from metastatic tumors within 5 years. Cancer evolves much more rapidly in dogs, with more than 90% of cases of metastases in less than 2 years.

"The genetic similarity between dogs and humans offers a unique opportunity and a comparative model that will allow the development of new therapies in a shorter schedule," said Heather L. Gardner, DVM, Ph.D. School of Biomedical Sciences graduated from the Sackler University of Tufts and lead author of the study.

Jeffrey Trent, Ph.D., FACMG, TGen's president and chief research officer, and badociate author, said the comparative oncology approach was vital for the rapid development of new treatments for humans and animals. company that need help today.

"Taking advantage of the similarities between the human and canine forms of ES greatly enhances our understanding of the development and spread of this aggressive cancer, and more importantly, it offers the opportunity to develop treatments that make a difference in life. children and pets, "said Dr. Trent, a supporter of comparative oncology for more than a decade.