How Some Dogs Get Cancer: How Genetic Mutations Trigger Cancer in Dogs | Charlotte Hacker, MS, PhD

Dr. Charlotte Hacker discusses the complex genetics behind why dogs get cancer. Despite common beliefs, larger animals like elephants and blue whales rarely get cancer due to high levels of tumor suppressor genes like p53. Unfortunately, dogs’ genetic makeup, influenced by rapid, human-directed breeding practices, makes them particularly susceptible to cancer.

Dr. Hacker explains the role of DNA, mutations, proto-oncogenes, and tumor suppressor genes in cancer development. She emphasizes variability across breeds, hereditary and spontaneous mutations, and environmental factors like UV light. Preventive measures for genetic and spontaneous mutations in dogs, common cancer-related genes in different breeds, and the promise of emerging research in fields like epigenetics are also discussed.

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Related Links:

Genetic Mutations and Dog Cancer: An Overview (article) https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/stats-and-facts/genetic-mutations-and-dog-cancer/

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction

00:21 Meet Dr. Charlotte Hacker

01:09 Understanding Dog Genetics

03:06 DNA and Its Role in Cancer

06:48 Mutations and Their Effects

18:43 Oncogenes and Tumor Suppressors

24:14 Preventing Mutations in Dogs

25:49 Conclusion and Resources

33:55 Closing Remarks and Resources