April CVM New Research Roundup

A look at some of the newest published studies coming out of the CVM

• A study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association looks at improving anesthesia protocols needed for ideal medical care of loggerhead sea turtles. The research tracked agent called alfaxalone at three different doses to identify a safe dose.

“This research has had immediate impact in how we manage sea turtle anesthesia cases,” said study co-author Craig Harms. “We have been pleased to have this additional tool for use with these iconic protected species. Read the study here.

• Radiation therapy is a safe treatment for a particularly devastating type of blood cancer in dogs, according to a study published in the Journal of Veterinary Cardiology. The therapy may be helpful in fighting some cardiac tumors.

“Hemangiosarcoma is an aggressive cancer and treatment options are quite limited when it affects the heart,” said study co-author Michael Nolan. “Our research shows that radiation therapy is a safe and painless procedure, which can improve quality of life for dogs with cardiac hemangiosarcoma.” Read the study here.

• Intestinal bacteria play a role in the development of chemotherapy-induced gastrointestinal damage, according to the findings of a study co-authored by Stephanie King and Christopher Dekaney and published in PLOS ONE.

Understanding the role of bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract may help reduce the risk of GI upset with various chemotherapeutics during cancer treatment. Read the study here.

• A study co-authored by Ke Cheng and published in Circulation Research, the Journal of the American Heart Association, could lead to safer and more accessible stem cell treatments.

Stem cells have important therapeutic value but are challenging to obtain and culture for treatment. Cheng developed an artificial stem cell substitute and demonstrated its value for treatment in mice with cardiac damage. Read an overview of the study here.

• A new study from Emily Griffith, Karen Munana and Julie Nettifee surveyed the quality of life for dogs after treatment for epilepsy. It was published in the Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association. Read the study here.