Studying a Genetic Mutation in Osteosarcoma

Osteosarcoma is the most common primary bone cancer in dogs. Recent studies show 42% of canine osteosarcoma tumors have mutations in a gene called SETD2. In human medicine, SETD2 mutations are associated with more aggressive cancers and decreased response to chemotherapy. However, little is known about how SETD2 mutations impact bone cancer in dogs. Researchers will study the frequency of SETD2 mutations in osteosarcoma that has spread to the lungs and its affect on sensitivity to anticancer treatments. Findings will improve our understanding on how SETD2 impacts canine bone cancer and help guide the development of new treatments for aggressive forms of this devastating disease.