We (
http://www.aht.org.uk/) have two types of research study:
1. Breed-specific
Although most cancers affect most pedigree dog breeds, some breeds show an elevated incidence of certain cancers. This suggests that the some members of these breeds carry inherited ‘genetic alterations’ that make it more likely that they will develop the cancer concerned. The objective of each breed-specific research study is to identify the ‘genetic risk factor(s)’ for the cancer concerned carried by some members of the breed. In the long term we hope that this will lead to the development of one, or more, DNA tests to identify dogs that have an increased risk of developing the cancer, allowing breeders to take this into consideration in their breeding programmes. This information will be useful to vets as it will identify dogs that may benefit from careful monitoring for early detection of cancer, thereby enabling early treatment. In addition, by identifying inherited genetic alterations that play a role in the development of cancer we increase our understanding of the ways in which tumours develop, and potentially identify targets for new drugs intended to prevent tumour development and/or progression.
2. Tumour-specific
The objectives of these studies are: a) To identify the spontaneous (not inherited) genetic alterations that are involved in tumour development and tumour spread, and b). Identify ‘molecular markers’ that accurately predict how a tumour will behave and respond to treatment. Detecting the genetic changes (that are not inherited) found in tumours is also a means of identifying new ways for intervening to prevent tumour development and/or tumour spread. Molecular markers that accurately predict how tumours behave are the basis of new prognostic tests for cancers. Such tests will assist oncologists to make better informed decisions about the most appropriate treatment for a dog affected by cancer.
If you would like additional information, and/or you would like to help our research by contributing a sample, please contact us by E-mail to
oncologyres@aht.org.uk