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Researchers are not responsible for providing information on advances so far attained.  It should be noted however that despite the frequent press releases designed to insure ongoing donations and funding, there has been no definitive “cure” in human cancer.  The cancer death rate continues to climb while at the same time, research fails to disseminate information about known contributory factors;  diet, chemicals, toxins, and environmental - or about equally effective non-prescription treatments or cancer prevention therapies.

 

NEW CANINE CANCER STUDY RESEARCH INVOLVES:

 

Akita, American Cocker Spaniel, Boxer, Bullmastiff, Chinese Shar-Pei, Chow Chow, English Cocker Spaniel, English Springer Spaniel, Flat-Coated Retriever, German Shepherd, Giant Schnauzer, Golden Retriever, Greyhound, Labrador Retriever, Leonberger, Mastiff, Miniature Poodle, Miniature Schnauzer, Pointer, Pug, Rottweiler, Scottish Terrier, Standard Poodle, Standard Schnauzer, Toy Poodle.

 

After completing the dog genome sequencing project, the Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT and collaborators are now working on identifying disease genes predisposing to cancer. Identification of such genes could lead to carrier testing, a better understanding of the disease and long term better treatments for the disease in both dogs and humans. More information: www.broad.mit.edu/mammals/dog.

 

For each of the below diseases researchers need blood samples from affected dogs as well as blood samples from healthy older (6 years) dogs.

 

Mammary tumors

PI: Kerstin Lindblad-Toh Broad and Elizabeth McNiel, U. Minnesota Focus: English Springer Spaniel Additional breeds included: German Shepherds, Cocker Spaniels and Boxers Please contact: Dog-info@broad.mit.edu

 

Melanoma

PI: Kerstin Lindblad-Toh Broad and Phil Bergman, Animal Medical Center, NY Breeds included: ALL including Scottish Terriers, Cocker Spaniels, Black Labrador Retrievers, Rottweilers, Chow Chows, and Pugs Please contact: Dog-info@broad.mit.edu

 

Lymphoma

PI: Kerstin Lindblad-Toh, Broad Focus: Golden Retrievers, Boxers Additional breeds included: Cocker Spaniel, Rottweiler, Akita, Flat- Coated Retriever Please contact: Dog-info@broad.mit.edu

 

Mast cell tumors

Collaborators: Kerstin Lindblad-Toh, Broad and Cheryl London, UC Davis Focus: Pugs and Chinese Shar-Pei Additional breeds included: Pit Bull Terrier, Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, German Shepherd, Cocker Spaniel, Boxer Please contact: Dog-info@broad.mit.edu

 

Researchers at the AMC Cancer Research Center and University of Colorado Health Science Center are looking for samples for the following projects:

Lymphoma

Researchers need samples from any dog that has an AKC registration number. Eligible dogs will undergo standard of care treatment and provide blood samples as well. Availability of 2 or more unaffected relatives that are 6 years old is desirable. They also would encourage people who have dogs that are related to study subjects that are affected to participate. Owners of all dogs will be asked to fill out a follow-up questionnaire.

 

Hemangiosarcoma

Researchers need blood samples from affected dogs for a study to map susceptibility genes. In some cases, samples may be applied to the development of a diagnostic test for hemangiosarcoma. Eligible dogs must have an AKC registration number. Owners of all dogs will be asked to fill out a follow-up questionnaire.

 

Visit www.modianolab.org for additional information on these programs.

 

Also see Canine Study Needs Blood Samples

 

In June 2006, we initiated an inquiry into the Canine Cancer Foundation’s mass-mailed donation solicitations. We were unable to elicit verifiable response relating to any expenditures particularly for funds so far collected.  The university cited did not respond, nor did the vet pictured.  They were also contacted by other media people, including a former senior Editor for National Enquirer and so far as we know, they have not responded.

 

We were left with the impression that it was a scam despite the professionally designed website. We also believe the mass mailing for "Animal Refuge" donations to be a scam.  The above projects are no doubt legitimate. If there is any doubt, you have but to inquire specifically regarding the primary purpose for which the collection of tissues, blood samples, or genetic information will be used. Often it is actually gathered for human research and may or may not have a trickle-down effect for dogs.  You can then decide whether to assist.  We just thought you should know and that researchers should always be forthcoming.