An international team of researchers has found genetic similarities between cancers in domestic cats and humans, which could enhance our understanding of tumor biology and treatment approaches.
An international research team, led by scientists from the Wellcome Sanger Institute in the UK, has analyzed the DNA of tumors from nearly 500 domestic cats, focusing on around a thousand genes linked to 13 types of feline cancers. Dr. Louise van der Weyden, who heads the project, emphasizes the previously opaque genetics of cancer in cats, stating that any knowledge deepening our understanding of tumors, regardless of species, benefits all living beings. The study sheds light on the genetic parallels between feline and human cancers, which might unlock new insights into tumor behavior and treatment strategies.
The researchers discovered that many genes implicated in cancer development in cats have human counterparts. This finding suggests that both species may share critical biological mechanisms that facilitate tumor growth and metastasis. Particularly promising are the results related to triple-negative breast cancer, known to be one of the most aggressive forms of cancer in humans. This discovery could lead to advancements in therapeutic approaches not only for animals but also for human patients battling similar forms of cancer.
Overall, the research's implications extend beyond veterinary medicine into human health, offering potential pathways for developing targeted treatments and improving outcomes for cancer patients in both species. By understanding the shared genetic landscape of cancers between cats and humans, scientists hope to leverage this knowledge to foster innovative solutions that could change how these diseases are approached globally.
