Cancer affects nearly every species, yet researchers still have much to learn about how the disease develops, progresses and responds to treatment in both animals and humans.

Advances in human oncology treatment continuously lead to targeted therapies and immunotherapies tailored to specific genetic mutations, but veterinary medicine is still working to build the foundational knowledge needed to bring those same innovations to animal patients.

At the Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine, researchers are working to close that gap through the Comparative-Oncology Research and Treatment program, an initiative focused on comparative oncology, genetics and precision medicine. By studying cancer across species, CREST aims to improve outcomes for companion animals, livestock and people.

“We know cancer does not distinguish among species,” said Dr. Sudhakar Jha, CVM associate professor of physiological sciences and director of CREST. “Humans, dogs, cats, horses and cattle all develop cancer. The more we understand what drives the disease, the better we can diagnose and treat it.”

One of CREST’s goals is to identify the genetic mutations that drive cancer development in animals.

Using advanced genome sequencing, researchers can analyze tumor samples and compare findings across species. In some cases, mutations found in animals mirror those already well-studied in human medicine. This creates opportunities to apply existing knowledge to treatments in other species. The approach could help move veterinary medicine beyond traditional cancer treatments toward more precise, targeted treatment options.

A model for the future

CREST’s work is built on collaboration among multiple colleges, disciplines and research programs across OSU.

Cancer research inherently requires expertise from a variety of fields. Jha’s laboratory teams up with partners across campus — including the College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology and the College of Arts and Sciences — to develop more effective methods for studying virus-induced cancers, such as those caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and bovine leukemia virus (BLV), while collaborating with other researchers to better understand how infections, genetics and immune responses contribute to disease.

The program also connects researchers studying cancer disparities, diabetes and other chronic diseases, creating opportunities to explore broader health trends that affect both human and animal populations.

“The vision from Dr. Jha and his collaborators is exceptional, and his new CREST laboratory represents a breakthrough for the College of Veterinary Medicine and Oklahoma State University to bridge veterinary oncology, bioinformatics and therapeutic potential,” said Dr. Jeff Frisbee, CVM interim associate dean of research.

This cross-disciplinary model reflects the growing importance of the One Health approach, which recognizes the connections among human, animal and environmental health. Discoveries in one species can often inform research in another. Data gathered from cattle, companion animals and wildlife can contribute to a broader understanding of cancer biology, while advances in human medicine can help guide veterinary treatment strategies.

“The platform we’re building can apply to many species,” Jha said. “What we learn in one species can help us treat another. It becomes a network of information.”

Furthering the mission

Jha said his goal with CREST is to help advance OSU’s land-grant mission to serve communities through research, education and outreach.

The potential impact of oncology research in animals extends beyond dogs and cats. Livestock producers face significant economic challenges when disease affects their herds, especially when illnesses are detected late or are difficult to diagnose.

Jha cites BLV as one example. Although the virus has been studied for years, many questions remain about how it contributes to leukemia in cattle and how producers can identify infections before they become costly problems.

Earlier detection methods could help producers make better management decisions, reduce losses and improve overall herd health. Jha also envisions future vaccines and screening tools that could become part of routine herd management.

New technology fuels discovery

The future success of CREST will be strengthened by another major investment in OSU’s veterinary programs: the planned veterinary medical teaching hospital.

Jha believes the facility will significantly expand opportunities for clinical care and research. Advanced diagnostic equipment, increased patient access and modern clinical spaces will help researchers translate lab discoveries into patient outcomes.

The hospital will also improve access to valuable clinical samples for genetic and cancer research. Jha envisions a process in which samples collected from veterinary patients can be analyzed, with findings eventually helping guide future treatment decisions.

“I am very pleased with Dr. Jha’s commitment to CVM and OSU in developing this new laboratory for translational oncology research,” said Dr. Richard Prather, dean of OSU CVM. “CREST will represent a core resource and capability in our new teaching hospital.”

For Jha, the intersection of his lab’s research, interdisciplinary collaboration and new clinical facilities presents a unique opportunity to transform how cancer is studied across species.

“This is truly a One Health approach,” he said. “We’re building a platform to help us understand cancer earlier and improve outcomes for animals and people. That’s the vision we’re working toward.”

Photos by: Eric Priddy | Research Matters Magazine