Cancer Similarities Between Cats and Humans Offer Hope for New Treatments

A growing body of research suggests that cancer behaves remarkably similarly in cats and humans, opening up exciting possibilities for cross-species understanding and the development of new treatments. This convergence is particularly significant given that approximately 139 million European families – around 26 percent – share their lives with at least one feline companion [1].

Understanding the Shared Genetic Landscape of Cancer

Cancer remains a leading cause of illness and death in cats, yet the underlying mechanisms of its development are not fully understood. Researchers are increasingly recognizing that domestic cats are exposed to many of the same environmental risk factors that contribute to cancer in humans, suggesting a potential for shared biological pathways.

“By comparing cancer genomes between different types, we get a broader understanding of what causes cancer,” explains Billy Francis, co-first author at the Wellcome Sanger Institute for Genomic Research. He emphasizes that the genetic alterations observed in cat cancers often mirror those seen in humans and dogs, highlighting the potential for valuable knowledge exchange between veterinary and human medicine [2].

Key Findings from Recent Research

A recent study examined the DNA sequences of approximately 500 domestic cats from seven countries, analyzing tissue samples collected for veterinary purposes. Researchers focused on approximately 1,000 genes known to be linked to cancer in humans, across 13 different types of feline cancers. This allowed for a direct comparison of genetic changes with those observed in human and canine cancers.

The research identified 31 cancer driver genes common across species. Notably, the TP53 gene, a crucial tumor suppressor, exhibited a similar mutation rate in cats (33 percent of tumors) as in humans (34 percent). Mutations in TP53 disrupt its function, promoting cancer development.

Similarities in Breast Cancer

Researchers have also uncovered striking similarities between feline mammary tumors and human breast cancers. Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer in women, while mammary gland cancer is a common malignancy in female cats. Both species share driver genes that regulate cell growth, and mutations in these genes can lead to uncontrolled tumor growth and spread.

In feline mammary adenocarcinoma, changes in the FBXW7 gene were found in over 50 percent of tumors. This gene is also associated with a poorer prognosis in human breast cancer patients.

Implications for Future Treatments

The availability of a large collection of donated tissue samples has enabled researchers to evaluate the response of tumors to various drugs across multiple cancer types. “Having this large number of donated tissues available allowed us to evaluate the response of tumors to various drugs on multiple tumor types, in a way that was not previously possible at this scale,” said Sven Rottenberg, co-senior author of the study from the University of Bern in Switzerland. This research could pave the way for identifying novel treatment options that benefit both cats and humans.

The European Pet Organization (EPO) promotes responsible pet ownership and animal welfare, supporting initiatives that contribute to the health and wellbeing of pets [1]. FEDIAF, the European pet food industry trade body, is committed to providing safe, nutritious, and palatable products for pets, further emphasizing the importance of pet health [3].