An international study, published in Science, has analyzed DNA from nearly 500 tumors in cats.
Researchers identified several genetic alterations that play a significant role.
One particular gene, FBXW7, was frequently found to be altered in aggressive breast tumors. More than half of the cats studied had mutations in this gene.
Similar changes are also known in human breast cancer, where they are associated with a more severe disease progression.
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Shared risks
Researchers point out that cats and humans share many of the same environments.
This means they may also be exposed to the same risk factors that can lead to cancer.
The study also found genetic similarities in several other types of cancer, including those affecting the blood, lungs, and nervous system.
According to the Wellcome Sanger Institute, these shared traits may help researchers better understand the disease overall.
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Laboratory experiments
Laboratory experiments show that certain types of chemotherapy are more effective on tumors with specific genetic changes.
This could have implications for future treatment, although further research is needed.
The study is part of an approach in which veterinarians and medical doctors collaborate more closely. According to the researchers, knowledge gained from cats may be used to improve treatments for humans.
Cats may prove to be an important key to understanding and treating cancer in humans.
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Sources: SciTechDaily, and Science.
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