EC25F-401: Mapping the feline fibrosarcoma oncogenome: identification of tumor-associated genomic alterations, oncogenic drivers, and potential therapeutic targets

Fibrosarcoma (FSA) is one of the most common cancers in cats, arising from fibrous connective tissue. Two broad subtypes are recognized. One subtype (injection-site sarcoma, ISS) develops where a vaccination or other injection was administered, potentially several years earlier. ISS tend to be aggressive cancers, growing rapidly and spreading into deeper layers of the skin and potentially beyond. Treatment typically involves surgical removal of the tumor, but the nature of the tumor means that extensive areas of tissue need to be removed to limit the risk of the cancer returning. In contrast, FSA that develop without any apparent link to an injection event (non-ISS) are often less aggressive, more readily treated, and have a more favorable prognosis. Unfortunately, it can be very difficult to determine which type of FSA has developed, as they appear very similar. We are yet to fully understand why and how ISS develop, which is necessary for improving methods for diagnosis and treatment. This project aims to study the DNA sequence of FSA, to identify genes that carry mutations or other abnormalities that may alter the way in which tumor cells behave. By characterizing these defects, we aim to identify cell signaling pathways that are disrupted in the development of FSA, which may offer new opportunities for improving treatment. We will also determine if there are specific defects that are associated with the ISS subtype, which could help us distinguish them from non-ISS. There may also be useful for other species that develop similar tumors. (Sponsored by The Doris Day and Terry Melcher Foundation)