Q&A: Researchers focus on innovative treatments for brain tumors in dogs
Virginia Tech researchers are exploring innovative treatments for brain tumors in dogs, providing new hope for pets and their families.
Eli Vlaisavljevich, associate professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, and John Rossmeisl, the Dr. and Mrs. Dorsey Taylor Mahin Professor of Neurology and Neurosurgery at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, are pioneering advancements in brain cancer treatment for companion animals that also could contributes valuable insight for human health.
November is National Pet Cancer Awareness Month. With over 6 million pets diagnosed with cancer every year, Virginia Tech’s work in pet cancer research represents a critical step toward more humane and effective care.
This trial offers an essential stepping stone in developing less invasive treatment options for brain cancer and is supported by the Focused Ultrasound Foundation and the AKC Canine Health Foundation, highlighting the widespread commitment to results across species.
Vlaisavljevich and Rossmeisl’s study, recently published in SAGE Journals, outlines their work treating brain tumors in dogs through focused ultrasound technology. Called histotripsy, this is a treatment that can destroy tumor tissue without radiation or heat.
What is histotripsy and how does it work?
The researchers note that histotripsy uses ultrasound technology to emulsify tumor tissue. Put a different way, histotripsy uses acoustic energy, or sound waves, to modify tissue. The intent is to cause a mechanical disruption of the tissue – killing cancer cells. It is precise and unlike traditional surgery, histotripsy can focus its impact on the tumor itself allowing veterinarians to treat hard-to-reach brain tumors that cannot normally be accessed with traditional surgery. This method also minimizes damage to other tissue and is less invasive than traditional surgery.
“Our goal is to pioneer treatments that make a tangible difference in the lives of both pets and people, using the latest in bioengineering innovations,” Vlaisavljevich said.
What were the findings?
Histotripsy was successfully delivered to all dogs in the study and demonstrated to be feasible and safe. This study provides novel data regarding the clinical and neuropathological effects of histotripsy in the naturally diseased brain, which are important for future investigational study designs and translation of the technology for neurological indications.
“Pets are family, and they deserve the best care possible when facing serious illnesses like brain cancer. Our research aims to provide hope and healing for families everywhere,” Rossmeisl said.
Why dogs?
Domesticated dogs are the only other mammals – besides humans – that commonly develop spontaneous brain tumors, making them an ideal model for investigating new therapies, like histotripsy.
What is the ultimate goal of the study?
A long-term goal is to develop a completely noninvasive treatment that would eliminate the need for surgery when it comes to tumors, the researchers said. Recovery times are much quicker, and side effects far fewer. The team is in the early stages of exploring this possibility.
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