Spotted leopard geckos with unusual coloring, prone to developing cancer, could serve as a valuable tool for studying the formation and spread of tumors. This was reported by Science Daily on July 15.
Experts examined a gecko morph known as “lemon frost,” which is popular among breeders due to its bright yellow coloration. Researchers discovered that approximately 80% of individuals of this variety suffer from aggressive tumors. Using whole-genome sequencing, scientists compared tumor samples with healthy tissues and identified genetic changes that largely mirror processes causing cancer in humans.
Ilenia Chiari, lead researcher from the School of Biological Sciences at the University of Nottingham
By investigating why some animals are so susceptible to cancer while others are surprisingly resistant to it, we hope to uncover the various ways species have learned to cope with this disease. In particular, this gecko could become an incredible model for research because tumors develop naturally in it at a relatively young age.
According to the authors of the study, these natural survival strategies may reveal new methods for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of human diseases. Unlike laboratory mice, where tumor growth often has to be induced artificially, in leopard geckos cancerous pathologies develop spontaneously. Since such tumors frequently metastasize, these reptiles offer scientists a rare opportunity to observe the progression of the disease under natural conditions.
Brandon Hastings, co-author of the study
Our work demonstrates the importance of seeking answers across the diversity of life to better understand diseases that have a profound impact on humans. Methodologically, it also highlights that software developed for analyzing human cancer can be adapted to obtain meaningful data about a wide range of organisms.
Experts emphasize that the risk of cancer in reptiles is unevenly distributed. While turtles very rarely encounter this disease, selective mutations in geckos make them extremely vulnerable. Dr. Scott Glaberman from the University of Birmingham added that studying both cancer-susceptible and cancer-resistant species provides more opportunities to understand the nature of the illness, which is another argument in favor of preserving biodiversity.
On July 8, Science Daily reported the creation of particles for destroying cancerous tumors and activating the immune system. According to the publication, ultra-small silicon dioxide nanoparticles were named “Cornell Prime dots.” They are made from amorphous silica and, in experiments on mouse models, led to complete remission of an aggressive form of prostate cancer in several individuals.
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