Dog Stem Cell Could Aid Child Bone Cancer Patients
Scientists have discovered the presence of a certain canine stem cell which - as described by a study carried out in Edinburgh - could pave the way for new treatments for children with bone cancer. The cancer stem cell in question replicates the disease, thereby facilitating its distribution around the body. While it seems to resist treatment, through its identification, it may be achievable to deduce how it can best be targeted.
Similarities Between Child Bone Cancer and Dog Osteosarcoma
According to the study, which was published the The Veterinary Journal, similarities exist between child cases of bone cancer and osteosarcoma in dogs at a molecular level.
Osteosarcomas represent the most frequently observed variant of bone tumour found in children, with over 80 per cent of cases involving the loss of a limb.
"The rogue cancer stem cell is key in the whole process", stated the Royal Vet School's Professor David Argyle, adding: "We identified it by growing cells in particularly harsh conditions but whereas other cancer cells died off, this stem cell was able to survive."
Annually in the UK, approximately 30 new cases of child osteosarcomas develop. Most often, those affected are older children or young teenagers, and male. Only very infrequently do they develop in children aged below five.
It is not known what triggers osteosarcomas. However, genetically speaking, children with the eye disease retinoblastoma are thought to be more prone.
Cancer Research UK's Henry Scowcroft described how: "The idea that faulty stem cells drive the development of some cancers is gaining momentum", adding: "This discovery lends more weight to this theory, and opens up new avenues of research that could one day lead to new treatments."
He concluded, however, with a note of caution:
"The finding came from studies of cancer in dogs so it remains to be seen whether it holds true in humans."
Source - Pharmaceutical International's Research and Development Analyst
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