Cats may be a hope in treating cancer in humans and animals, according to a new study.
According to the BBC, the detailed genetic map of cancer in domestic cats is strikingly similar to those seen in humans. This could lead to new ways to treat both types of cancer.
According to the statement of the British-based Wellcome Sanger Institute, the research was conducted with experts from Ontario, Bern and Cornell universities. 13 different types of cancer were analyzed using samples from 500 domestic cats in five countries.
According to the study, animals were exposed to some of the same environmental cancer risks as their owners. This means that some of the causes of the disease may be partly common.
As a result of the investigations, genetic changes that lead to cancer in cats were discovered. These appeared to be similar to those seen in humans. Breast cancer was given as an example.
Bailey Francis, co-author of the study published in the journal Science, stated that they better understand what causes cancer:
“One of our most important findings was that the genetic changes in cat cancer were similar to some of the changes seen in humans and dogs.”
The discovery could help veterinarians as well as studies on cancer in humans, the study said.
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