The Queen’s Veterinary School Hospital (QVSH), part of the Department of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Cambridge has announced a new research collaboration with the world-leading Wellcome Sanger Institute, focused on improving understanding and treatment of osteosarcoma (OSA) in dogs.
Osteosarcoma is the most common primary bone cancer in dogs and most frequently affects large and giant breeds. It is a highly aggressive disease that often spreads early and, despite advances in clinical care, current treatment options remain limited.
The new study will examine the genetic changes that occur in osteosarcoma tumours. By understanding which genes drive the disease, researchers hope to identify biomarkers – genetic clues that could help diagnose the cancer earlier, predict prognosis for individual patients, and ultimately lead to new treatment options.
Dr Alison Hayes, principal clinical oncologist at the Queen’s Veterinary School Hospital, University of Cambridge said “We are delighted to be working with the Wellcome Sanger Institute on this important study. Our oncology team is committed to advancing outcomes for dogs with cancer, and this collaboration represents an exciting step forward in research into osteosarcoma with the aim to improve the care we offer in the future.”
The study is looking for dogs with a confirmed or suspected diagnosis of osteosarcoma, whose treatment plan includes surgical removal of the tumour at the QVSH. With the owner’s permission, tissue samples will be collected from the amputated limb after surgery, as well as from nearby healthy tissue for comparison.
Participation involves no additional procedures, discomfort, or hospital visits for dogs, and there is no cost to owners for the research elements of the study. All genetic analysis is funded through a research grant, and all data is anonymised.
Dr Louise Van Der Weyden, study co-lead at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, said: “Cancer can happen across the animal kingdom, including in dogs. Our new study aims to apply genomic sequencing techniques, which have benefited humans, to canine osteosarcoma to uncover what drives these bone tumours and gain a deeper understanding of why they happen. We hope that by doing so, we can pave the way for the development of potential biomarkers to help early diagnosis and possibly provide future treatment options for dogs who currently have no cure.”
Owners and referring vets who wish to learn more are encouraged to read about how to take part on their website. They can also contact the QVSH oncology team here.
