Using New Technology to Improve Diagnosis of Lymphoma in Cats

SUMMARY: Researchers will study the genes that are turned “on” and “off” in feline gastrointestinal lymphoma as a step toward improving the diagnosis of this important cancer.

THE PROBLEM: Feline gastrointestinal (GI) lymphoma is one of the most common and serious cancers in cats. It affects the small intestine, which is a key part of the digestive system and home to many of the body’s immune cells. This disease often causes long-term problems such as weight loss, vomiting, and diarrhea, and it is a major cause of illness and death in cats. Unfortunately, current tests do not always catch the disease early, and treatment choices are limited. Finding a better way to diagnose intestinal cancer in cats could help cats receive treatment earlier in their disease.

THE PROJECT: This project uses new technologies that allow scientists to look at cancer in new ways. Instead of only viewing cells under a microscope, the team will measure which genes are “turned on or off” in different areas of the intestine while keeping the tissue structure intact. This creates a detailed “map” that shows how cancer cells interact with nearby immune and support cells. By comparing maps from healthy cats with those from cats with lymphoma, the team can discover how the disease changes normal tissue, how it hides from the immune system, and which biological pathways may be targeted for new treatments.

The research team has already collected samples from cats with and without lymphoma and has shown that this approach works. With support from this grant, they’ll expand the number of cats studied and
build the first complete reference atlas of feline intestinal lymphoma.

POTENTIAL IMPACT: The results will benefit cats directly by improving diagnosis and guiding better treatment options. Beyond feline health, this work has broader impact. Cats naturally develop lymphomas that share features with human disease, meaning discoveries can also inform cancer research in people. By making all data and methods publicly available, the teams aim to speed progress across veterinary and human medicine. This project brings hope to cat owners, veterinarians, and researchers by laying the groundwork for earlier diagnosis, improved care, and new therapies for feline GI lymphoma.