Genetic Study of Cats Offers Insights for Human Cancer Treatment
Research reveals shared mutations between feline and human cancers
- Genetic analysis of 500 cats shows key mutations shared with human cancers.
- Cats may offer clues for studying triple-negative breast cancer.
- Shared human-cat environments help researchers explore environmental cancer risks.
The first comprehensive genetic map of cancer in domestic cats has revealed surprising similarities with human cancers, potentially paving the way for new treatments for both species.
An international team, led by the Wellcome Sanger Institute in Cambridge, analysed tumour DNA from nearly 500 pet cats, focusing on around 1,000 genes linked to 13 types of feline cancer. The study uncovered key genetic mutations driving cancer in cats, many of which mirror those found in humans.
“Cat cancer genetics has totally been a black box until now,” said lead researcher Dr. Louise Van der Wayden. “The more we understand about cancer in any species, the more beneficial it is for everybody.”
The research highlights cats’ potential role in studying aggressive breast cancers, including triple-negative breast cancer, which occurs more frequently in cats than humans. This provides scientists with access to samples that could inform the development of new medicines.
While dogs have been extensively studied in cancer research, cats have largely been overlooked. Researchers say cats’ shared environment with humans can provide important clues about how lifestyle and environmental factors influence cancer risk.
Prof. Geoffrey Wood of the Ontario Veterinary College added, “This can help us understand why cancer develops in cats and humans, how the world around us affects cancer risk, and possibly find new ways to prevent and treat it.”
