Feline eye cancer genes could reveal insights for humans
There are currently no effective treatments for FDIM if it spreads.
A new study into feline diffuse iris melanoma (FDIM) has not only offered insights into its treatment, but could also inform research into human eye cancers.
Experts from the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies have uncovered links between FDIM and uveal melanoma, a human eye cancer which frequently proves fatal.
FDIM is the most common primary ocular tumour affecting cats. If it spreads, it can prove fatal to patients.
Treatment of the condition usually involves the removal of the eye in the early stages of the disease, which can prevent it from spreading. However, if it does spread, there are no effective treatment options.
As part of the project, researchers examined tissues samples from cats which had been diagnosed with FDIM. These samples enabled the scientists to identify genes related to early and late disease, and also consider the biological processes behind the disease’s development.
For the first time, it was revealed that iris melanosis, often considered benign, was actually a precursor to malignant FDIM.
Researchers expect these findings to lead to improved diagnostic tools to support veterinary teams in determining severity and prognosis of FDIM. It could also inform the treatment options available at various stages of the disease.
Additionally, there are hopes that advances in research into feline eye cancer could lead to improved understanding of eye cancer in humans.
During their research, scientists were surprised to discover genetic similarities between FDIM and uveal melanoma. This raised implications to ocular melanoma pathogenesis across a species.
The team believes that their procedures could contribute to the development of cell-culture based models to further examine feline and human ocular diseases. For example, mini-tumours could be developed in a laboratory to study the disease process as well as new drug development.
David Kayes, of the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, said: “Feline diffuse iris melanoma is a life-threatening eye cancer in cats, with limited treatment options available, even when it is caught early.
“Our study shines a light on how this cancer develops and spreads, offering hope for better ways to detect, manage and eventually treat this disease – helping not only cats, but people too.”
The full study can be found in the journal Scientific Reports.
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