About this Research Topic

Background

Precision medicine is an emerging interdisciplinary concept in oncology, with the goal of treating patient’s individual cancer in terms of its molecular characteristics. It is a branch of biomedical research that searches for a more accurate diagnosis and treatment approach for patients. Precision medicine in oncology considers individual genetic variability and specific tumor mutations, comprising an individually tailored plan according to each patient, mainly using two approaches: on the one hand, big data to identify key genes as a target therapy, and on the other, using organoid models for providing a more specific anti-tumor response.

The comparative oncology field is important since animals develop spontaneous tumors, and share the same environment as humans, being called sentinels for this reason. In veterinary medicine, the use of big data analysis in different tumor subtypes has been increasing in the past years, allowing the identification of drivers in tumorigenesis, tumor resistance, and new predictive markers. This new knowledge brings an opportunity to use this information intending a more personalized approach.

Bringing the concept of precision medicine to veterinary oncology, it is a unique opportunity to revolutionize treatment for dogs and cats with cancer, thus improving patients' outcomes. The use of big data in veterinary medicine focuses on the identification cancer-specific mutations that can be treated with small molecules inhibitors. However, the precision medicine concept can be used with a broad spectrum, in the identification of diagnostic, predictive, and prognostic factors.

We welcome Original Research and Review articles from investigators worldwide that will stimulate the continuing efforts to increase the use of genetic and epigenetic biomarkers in veterinary personalized and precision medicine, including:

1) Identification and evaluation of new genetic and epigenetic biomarkers

2) Use of different biomarkers in clinical practice

3) Tumor-derived organoids as a drug screening tool in clinical practice

4) Liquid biopsy as a personalized tool in veterinary oncology

5) Approaches to and strategies for using personalized precision medicine based on the integration of genetic and epigenetics

This Research Topic is the Volume II of the successful collection “Precision Medicine in Veterinary Oncology”. eBook available here: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/13380/precision-medicine-in-veterinary-oncology

Keywords: Personalized Oncology, Targeted Therapy, Predictive Markers, Comparative Oncology

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.

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