Osteosarcoma research could help reduce animal pain

Champaign, Ill. - 3/15/07 - A University of Illinois research team uncovered a similarity between known human protein pathways in osteosarcoma patients and the proteins of canine and feline patients that could help improve palliative care for animals. Headed by Anne Barger, professor of veterinary pathology, the team found that a molecular pathway known to have a role in the progression of bone cancer in humans is also critical to the pathology of skeletal tumors in dogs and cats. Researchers examined the homeostatic role of the enzyme receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B (RANK), and two modulators of its activity: Rank ligand (RANK-L) and osteoprotegrin (OPR). The three work together to regulate bone and immune balance.Bone tumors are presumed to hinder the homeostatic process by changing how RANK, RANK-L and OPG interact, causing the production of osteoclasts.The researchers are the first to verify that the expression of this protein, which worsens the effects of bone cancer in humans, also occurs in dogs and cats with skeletal tumors. Using the information, researchers may be able to create inhibitors to slow the process breakdown and reduce pain and other cancer complications for animals.