Investigating the Use of a Cutting-Edge Immunotherapy Platform to Treat Histiocytic Sarcoma in Dogs

SUMMARY: Researchers will evaluate an innovative approach using engineered intracellular bacteria called quasiorganelles as a platform for the intracellular delivery of proteins to histiocytic sarcoma cells and surrounding immune cells in the local tumor environment. This proteins have been selected to suppress cancer growth and stimulate the immune system for the purpose of eliminating cancer cells.

THE PROBLEM: Histiocytic sarcoma is an aggressive cancer that is almost 100% fatal in affected dogs. Conventional therapies are ineffective and new strategies to treat this cancer are urgently needed. 

THE PROJECT: The researchers will develop quasiorganelles that enter histiocytic sarcoma cells and the immune cells that support cancer growth with the goal of stopping their uncontrolled growth and then directing immune cells to eliminate the cancer. If the initial pilot study in dogs suggests safety and efficacy, the team plans to expand this treatment to a multi-center clinical trial in affected dogs that show up to the clinic with advanced disease.. 

POTENTIAL IMPACT: If successful, this therapy could transform our ability to treat this aggressive cancer in dogs.