Animal Cancer Foundation is committed to improving the lives of dogs diagnosed with cancer. We’re proud to support the Canine Cancer Genome Project, a groundbreaking initiative using cutting-edge technology to better understand three of the most common and aggressive cancers in pet dogs: osteosarcoma, soft-tissue sarcoma, and B-cell lymphoma. A team of researchers from the Translational Genomics Research Institute, Tufts University, and Ethos Discovery is taking a deep dive into the biology of these cancers. They are examining them from every angle – looking at the DNA, RNA, and proteins – to build a comprehensive picture of what drives these tumors. The goal? To find smarter and faster ways to diagnose and treat canine cancer.

This research is already yielding exciting results. One major breakthrough is the discovery of a unique gene fusion event in certain soft tissue sarcomas. Think of it like a molecular fingerprint – something that helps veterinarians identify the exact type of cancer more quickly and more accurately.  Having a precise diagnosis is a crucial first step toward selecting the most effective treatment plan, saving valuable time for these dogs.

The ultimate goal of this comprehensive study is to transform how we treat canine cancer. By understanding the molecular mechanisms of these cancers, we can move beyond generalized treatments and find the exact vulnerabilities of a tumor. We are actively searching for other molecular features that can serve as biomarkers—biological signals that tell us which therapy will work best for that specific tumor. This is the core of precision medicine: tailoring treatment to each dog’s unique cancer profile. Together, this information helps veterinarians not only know what kind of cancer a dog has, but also which treatment will work best. This research is paving the way for better detection, more targeted treatments, and a brighter, healthier future for dogs with cancer.

Dr. Nicholas J. Schork, a Professor at TGen and one of the lead investigators of the initiative believes the research will help establish necessary precedents, arguing that “precision medicine will not advance unless scientific and administrative integration is promoted and enabled across different areas of research, including genomics, physiology, data analysis, and clinical medicine. The research and administrative team and I are thrilled that ACF recognizes this as well since it has been a unique and fruitful partnership with more to come.”