A scientific study reveals that domestic cats may hold keys to better understand breast cancer in humans, identifying common genetic alterations that can lead to treatments for both species.
A recent scientific study has uncovered that domestic cats could provide significant insights into breast cancer in humans. Researchers from the Wellcome Sanger Institute, along with international collaborators from Canada and Switzerland, analyzed tumors from nearly 500 felines across five countries. Their findings present the first large-scale genetic profile of various types of cancer in cats, which shows that environmental risks faced by these pets are comparable to those encountered by their human companions. This suggests a shared etiology of the disease, emphasizing the potential value of animal studies in human cancer research.
The study highlights mammary carcinomas, a common and aggressive form of cancer in felines. Researchers discovered seven driver genes associated with this type of cancer, indicating a genetic link between the development of tumors in both cats and humans. Understanding these shared genetic risks could pave the way for innovative treatment approaches, showcasing how veterinary research can contribute to advancements in human medicine.
Published in the prestigious journal Science, this research not only enriches the knowledge surrounding feline oncology but also opens new avenues for exploring cancer treatment by leveraging similarities between species. As cats face similar environmental challenges, it becomes imperative to study their genetic profiles to uncover potential therapeutic pathways that may benefit both animal and human health.
