Submitted by J. Hudson on Thu, 02/10/2025 - 13:11
The Queen’s Veterinary School Hospital (QVSH) has joined forces with the Wellcome Sanger Institute in Cambridge to launch an important new research study into osteosarcoma (OSA), the most common bone cancer in dogs.
Osteosarcoma is an aggressive tumour that usually affects the long bones of the limbs. It often causes pain and lameness and has a high risk of spreading to the lungs. While it can occur in any breed or age, it is most frequently seen in older, large, and giant breeds. Current treatments focus on relieving pain, maintaining quality of life and slowing the spread of the disease, but there is still no cure.
The new study will examine the genetic changes that occur in OSA 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.
How the study works
Dogs with a confirmed or suspected diagnosis of osteosarcoma, whose treatment plan includes surgical removal of the tumour at the QVSH, may be eligible to take part in the study. With owner’s permission, tissue samples will be collected from the amputated limb after surgery, as well as from nearby healthy tissue for comparison.
Participation in the study would not involve any additional procedures, discomfort, or hospital visits for the patient. All tissue and blood samples will only be collected after surgery. The genetic analysis is fully funded by a research grant, so there is no cost to owners beyond the normal cost of surgery and follow-up care.
Taking part
If your dog has been diagnosed with or suspected of having an osteosarcoma of the limb and surgical removal of the tumour has been recommended, you may be eligible to participate in this study. Please speak with your vet about a referral to the QVSH or contact the hospital directly to learn more.
By joining the study, your dog could play a vital role in helping researchers move closer to better diagnosis and treatment of this devastating disease.
If you have any queries regarding this study or want to read more about the study by reading our information sheet here or feel free to contact the hospital team directly at oncology@vet.cam.ac.uk
