Cat tumor genetics study reveals shared cancer drivers with humans

An international team analyzed tumors from nearly 500 domestic cats across five countries and found cancer driver genes shared with human cancers. Over 50% of aggressive feline mammary tumors carried mutations in FBXW7, mirroring worse prognosis in human breast cancer. A freely available database of feline cancer genetics was also released.

• Tumors from almost 500 cats in five countries were sequenced
• FBXW7 mutations found in over 50% of feline mammary tumors
• Shared drivers also seen in blood, bone, lung and skin cancers
• Some chemo drugs worked better on tumors with mutated FBXW7