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Study reveals effectiveness of diagnostic biomarkers for canine lymphoma
The results suggest that OBD's biomarkers can be successfully translated across species for related conditions.

Results highlight potential of non-invasive biomarkers in veterinary industry

Biotechnology company Oxford BioDynamics (OBD) has announced the results of a study focused on diagnosing B-cell lymphoma in dogs. OBD is centred around discovering and developing biomarkers based on regulatory 3D genome architecture, to be used within the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry.

The study was presented at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Conference on Advances in Liquid Biopsies, and was conducted in collaboration with multiple departments from the University of Minnesota including the College of Veterinary Medicine and Masonic Cancer Centre.

According to the study, OBD utilised its proprietary datasets of markers specific for regulatory 3D genome architecture of lymphoma in humans – as defined by its EpiSwitch platform – to assess if these could be successfully translated into dogs.

Using whole blood from a group of dogs with lymphoma the company was able to generate a new biomarker signature. This signature could correctly identify dogs with and without lymphoma with 80 per cent accuracy, sensitivity and specificity, as well as 80 per cent positive and negative predictive value.

These results suggest that OBD’s biomarkers can be successfully translated across species for related conditions, and could be applied in new therapeutic developments, including within the veterinary industry.

Chief scientific officer of Oxford BioDynamics Alexandre Akoulitchev said: “Our EpiSwitch technology has provided us with a great wealth of data associated with lymphoma patients, and subsequently allowed us to translate these insights into canines, where there is a well-recognised unmet need. It is clear that the fundamentals of 3D genomics open up a new dimension for the application of [these biomarkers], particularly in veterinary science and animal welfare.”

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.