At the Oncology Department of the Small Animal Clinic, University of Ljubljana, we are collaborating with the Finnish biotech company DeepScan Diagnostics to develop a new generation of diagnostic tests for early cancer detection and treatment monitoring in dogs. Our research focuses on circulating free DNA (cfDNA), a biomarker that can be isolated from a dog’s blood plasma.
About DeepScan Diagnostics
DeepScan Diagnostics specializes in noninvasive cancer diagnostics for pets, including early detection and treatment monitoring. Their approach uses advanced molecular techniques to isolate biomarkers from blood, following the latest standards in human medicine. By measuring DNA fragments released by damaged or cancerous cells, they can detect changes associated with various cancers. The current study is in the clinical trial phase, and the company has already established reference values from healthy dogs, which are now being used to compare different cancer types.
Purpose of the Research
Our goal is to develop a reliable and minimally invasive method for early identification of various tumour types – when the chances of successful treatment are highest. In cases where cancer has already been diagnosed, this approach can assist in monitoring disease progression or detecting relapse before clinical signs appear. Analysing cfDNA offers a non-invasive window into tumour malignancy, reducing the need for biopsies and other invasive procedures. This method shows particular promise for cancers such as lymphoma, mast cell tumours, hemangiosarcoma, and osteosarcoma.
How the Study Works
We collect blood samples from adult dogs with a confirmed oncological diagnosis. A 5 ml sample is taken during a routine oncology examination. The procedure is quick and painless, and the small volume of blood poses no additional risk to your dog. Along with the sample, we collect basic patient information—such as breed, sex, age, diagnosis, and current treatment—which is essential for interpreting the results.
Participation is entirely voluntary and free of charge, with no side effects for your dog. All data is anonymised, and any additional testing costs are fully covered by the research team. Once the analysis is complete, results are returned to our clinic and may be used as additional diagnostic support when planning the next steps in your pet’s treatment.
The number of the Animal Welfare Commission dated 01.09.2023 is 01-09/2023-2.
Want to Get Involved?
If you would like to learn more about the study or find out whether your dog might be eligible to participate, please contact the staff at the Oncology Department of the Small Animal Clinic, University of Ljubljana.:
- Prof. Nataša Tozon, DVM, PhD, Spec. in canine and feline medicine, natasa.tozon@vf.uni-lj.si
- Assist. prof. Urša Lampreht Tratar, DVM, PhD, ursa.lamprehttratar@vf.uni-lj.si
- Teaching assist. Zoja Verlič, DVM, zoja.verlic@vf.uni-lj.si
- Jr. res. Tanya Birk, DVM,tanya.birk@vf.uni-lj.si
By enrolling your dog in the study, you’ll be contributing to the development of more accurate, innovative, and less invasive cancer diagnostics for pets.
