A groundbreaking vaccine that could dramatically lower the risk of cancer in dogs is advancing through clinical trials, offering hope to pet owners who have faced the heartbreak of losing a beloved dog to the disease. Cancer is the leading cause of death in senior dogs, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association, and this experimental vaccine may soon change that.
From Concept to Clinical Trials
Dr. Stephen Johnston, CEO of biotech firm Calviri, began developing the vaccine 15 years ago despite widespread skepticism. “Everyone thought it was impossible—and most still do,” Johnston told Daily Paws. After successful trials in mice, his team launched The Vaccination Against Canine Cancer Study, a clinical trial currently enrolling eligible dogs.
How the Vaccine Works
The vaccine targets tumor-related “mistakes” called neoantigens, which trigger an immune response. Using advanced DNA technology, Johnston’s team screened 1.4 million potential neoantigens and selected 30 to include in the vaccine.
“It works like any other vaccine—we prepare the immune system to attack tumors as soon as they form,” Johnston explained. The vaccine aims to prevent eight common canine cancers:
- Mast cell tumors
- Osteosarcoma
- Lymphoma
- Melanoma
- Mammary cancer
- Lung cancer
- Soft tissue carcinomas
- Hemangiosarcoma
- Encouraging Early Results
Preliminary data shows vaccinated dogs experience 65% fewer tumors, with significant reductions in mast cell and adrenal tumors. However, the vaccine has not yet proven effective against hemangiosarcoma—a gap Johnston says will be addressed in the next version.
No safety concerns, including autoimmune reactions, have been reported. Many participating pet owners joined the trial after losing previous dogs to cancer, while others hope the research will eventually benefit humans.
An Unexpected Bonus: Fighting Chronic Disease
In a surprising twist, vaccinated dogs also saw over 50% fewer cases of chronic conditions like arthritis and metabolic disorders. Johnston attributes this to the vaccine’s unintended effect on senescent (“zombie”) cells, which contribute to aging and disease.
What’s Next?
The vaccine still requires USDA approval and further trials, which could take a year or more. Johnston emphasized affordability, stating, “We want cancer prevention to be accessible to all pet owners.”
If successful, this innovation could transform canine health—and potentially pave the way for human cancer prevention. For now, the dream of a cancer-free future for dogs moves closer to reality.
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