Shine On Continuation
For questions about the Shine On project contact Dr. Modiano listed above.
Study title
Strategic Prevention of Canine Hemangiosarcoma: Lifetime Follow-Up
Purpose of study
The goal of the Shine On Project is to develop a simple and reliable test that can predict the risk of dogs to develop hemangiosarcoma or other life-threatening cancers, and to combine that with an intervention that alters that risk, effectively preventing, or at least delaying the onset of cancer. The preliminary results of the Shine On Project are extremely encouraging. We have determined the SOS test has the potential to identify dogs at risk for hemangiosarcoma and other life-threatening cancers 2 to 4 years before a tumor appears and clinical signs are noticeable. A critically important aspect of our work is that we are making the information “actionable” by evaluating whether the drug eBAT can change the course of cancer risk. eBAT is effective as a component of the treatment of hemangiosarcoma and other tumors. Among the unique features of this drug are its remarkable safety and its modes of action, as it works not only by killing malignant tumor cells, but also by creating an inhospitable environment that makes it difficult for tumors to grow. This Shine On Continuation phase is specifically for testing the efficacy of eBAT in prevention.
See more about the Shine On Project.
Study update 1/29/2025: All currently available participants slots have been filled.
Eligibility criteria
- Dogs must be between 6 and 10 years old
- Dogs must be in good general health (no evidence of cancer, undiagnosed lumps and bumps, or other serious chronic diseases)
- Owners must agree to submit blood samples for re-testing according to the study guidelines
- Dog/Owner must live in the contiguous 48 states
Procedures
Owners will send blood samples from their enrolled dogs, collected at the University of Minnesota Veterinary Medical Center or at their home veterianry clinics, for testing at defined intervals.
Based upon the results of this testing, dogs that are assigned to the high-risk group for cancer will have the option to receive eBAT prevention at the Veterinary Medical Center, University of Minnesota in St. Paul, MN. In order to qualify for prevention, dogs will need to have additional blood tests and imaging tests at the VMC or at their home veterinary clinics to ensure a tumor is not already present.
Prevention includes three treatments with eBAT done over a 5-day period, so the process requires participants to be at the VMC several times during a 1-week period. The screening tests and the treatment can only be done at the VMC, so dogs whose owners are willing and able to be in St. Paul or the surrounding area for at least 7-8 days, if eligible, will be given preference for enrollment.
Costs
The study will cover all the costs associated with shipping the blood samples for testing, screening at the VMC, and eBAT administration (for eligible dogs), and it will also provide housing assistance.