Feline tumor sequencing identifies cancer driver genes shared with humans

An international study reported in Science analyzed the genetics of naturally occurring cancers in almost 500 domestic cats from five countries. Researchers sequenced DNA from tissues previously collected by veterinarians for diagnostic purposes, assessed drug responses in tissue samples, and created a freely available feline cancer genetics resource.

Many driver genes identified in feline tumors were also implicated in human and canine cancers. FBXW7 was the most common driver gene in feline mammary tumors, with mutations detected in more than 50% of those examined. The source notes that FBXW7 mutations in human breast cancer are associated with poorer prognosis. Researchers also reported cross-species genetic similarities in cancers affecting blood, bone, lung, skin, the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system.

Certain chemotherapy drugs were more effective against feline mammary tumor tissues carrying mutated FBXW7, but the source does not identify the drugs or quantify the response differences. These findings were limited to tissue samples and do not establish treatment efficacy in living cats or humans. The work provides a comparative oncology resource rather than evidence to change clinical treatment. This university-supplied account lists partial funding from foundations, public research agencies and CVS Group; detailed methods and results require review of the original paper.