RALEIGH, N.C.,
May 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ --
The AKC Canine Health Foundation (CHF), a non-profit
organization dedicated to advancing the health of all dogs, marks
Canine Cancer Awareness Month in May to highlight the impact of its
funded canine cancer research. The Foundation's active cancer
research portfolio represents a substantial $3.6 million investment, underscoring CHF's
commitment to the fight against this devastating disease.
CHF recently introduced two newly approved pilot studies aimed
at unraveling the complexities of malignant melanoma and bone
cancer in dogs, both of which could also unlock new pathways for
human cancer treatments. The studies are:
- Grant 03261-A: Mechanisms of Immunotolerance in Canine Oral
Melanoma: An Opportunity for Comparative Approaches
Principal Investigator: Valentina
Stevenson, DVM, PhD; University of
Florida
This project aims to characterize melanomas
based on their ability to modulate the immune system and develop
metastasis. Due to the similarities between naturally occurring
canine oral melanoma and human mucosal melanoma, results may
inform new treatments for this cancer in both species.
- Grant 03266-A: Development of a Novel Diagnostic Test for
Canine Osteosarcoma Using Raman Spectroscopy
Principal Investigator: Terza
Brostoff, DVM, PhD; University of
California, Davis
This study aims to create a blood
test that can quickly and accurately determine if a dog has bone
cancer. This test could be used for early diagnosis and to monitor
for when the cancer comes back after treatment, changing the way
veterinarians diagnose and treat this deadly cancer. Canine bone
cancer also has similarities to human bone cancer, and study
results may benefit both species.
CHF's commitment to cancer research is unwavering. Since 1995,
CHF and its donors have invested more than $18.1 million to study cancer at the molecular
level, conduct clinical trials for new treatments, and understand
how the immune system interacts with cancer cells. Approximately
one quarter of CHF's active research portfolio is dedicated to
these studies which explore more accurate diagnostic tests and new
treatments for canine cancer. Additional cancer research proposals
are under review as CHF strives to continually invest in novel
technologies and approaches to fighting cancer.
"By investing in scientific innovation, we can honor the lives
of dogs touched by cancer and build a brighter future for our
cherished companions," says Dr. Stephanie Montgomery, CHF
Chief Executive Officer.
To learn more about the Foundation's enduring commitment to
canine cancer research, including educational resources and ways to
participate in canine cancer research, please
visit akcchf.org/caninecancer.
About CHF
Since 1995, the AKC Canine Health
Foundation has leveraged the power of science to address the health
needs of all dogs. With more than $70
million in funding to date, the Foundation provides grants
for the highest quality canine health research and shares
information on the discoveries that help prevent, treat and cure
canine diseases. The Foundation meets and exceeds industry
standards for fiscal responsibility, as demonstrated by their
highest four-star Charity Navigator rating and Candid Platinum Seal
of Transparency. Learn more at www.akcchf.org.
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SOURCE AKC Canine Health Foundation