Background and Purpose of the Study
“Brain tumor” are two words that no parent or pet owner wants to hear. While advancements are continually being made, there are still many brain tumor types that have limited treatment options. The BARC study aims to look at a variety of tumor types in order to further our understanding of these cancers and develop better treatment options. Along with the research being done at CSU, we partner with several institutions so each pet’s tumor sample is able to contribute to a wide variety of research across the globe. In many tumor types, this research is being used to develop treatments for human brain cancers as well. In working together, we know that we can find new treatment options for brain cancers in dogs, cats, and humans.
Inclusion Criteria
- Pets must have a diagnosed brain tumor that is surgically accessible
- Pets cannot have previously received radiation or chemotherapy
- Pets must be otherwise systemically healthy
- Owners must be willing to have their pet undergo anesthesia for a biopsy or removal of the brain tumor
Study Design
After a brain tumor has been confirmed on MRI, removal of the tumor or a biopsy will be performed to confirm tumor type. It will be analyzed to confirm diagnosis and the remaining tissue will be used for research. In addition, a small blood sample (approximately 3 teaspoons) will be collected while the pet is anesthetized for research purposes.
Once all samples have been collected, participation in the clinical trial is complete with no trial-specific follow-up needed.
Incentives
The contribution of brain tumor tissue to the shared database is truly vital as we advance our way towards finding better treatments for brain cancers in dogs, cats, and humans. Additionally, as a thank you for participating, a portion of the cost of surgery will be covered by the study.