Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine, in collaboration with Akston Biosciences Corporation, has initiated a clinical trial to evaluate a novel immunotherapy for dogs with urinary bladder cancer. The trial focuses on an innovative anti-cPD-L1 monoclonal antibody (mAb), a therapeutic approach designed to block the cPD-L1 protein found on cancer cells. By inhibiting this protein, the immunotherapy aims to enhance the dog's immune response, improving cancer control and potentially extending life expectancy.

This cutting-edge therapy stems from a strategic partnership between Purdue and Akston, announced in August, and builds on research developed at the College of Veterinary Medicine and the Purdue Institute for Cancer Research (PICR).

Understanding Canine Bladder Cancer

Invasive urothelial carcinoma (InvUC), also called transitional cell carcinoma (TCC), is the most common and aggressive form of urinary bladder cancer in dogs. While it primarily affects the bladder, the cancer can also develop in other areas of the urinary tract and metastasize to the lymph nodes, lungs, liver, and other organs.

Despite advancements in treatment, InvUC remains challenging to cure. While many dogs maintain a good quality of life during treatment, the cancer often becomes resistant to therapies over time, leading to progression.

Trial Goals and Collaborations

The clinical trial evaluates the safety, pharmacokinetics, and antitumor efficacy of the anti-cPD-L1 mAb. Funded by a National Cancer Institute (NCI) grant through the PRE-medical Cancer Immunotherapy Network Canine Trials Consortium (PRECINCT) U01 program, the trial is also supported by the Werling Comparative Oncology Research Center (WCORC) at Purdue University.

The initiative is part of Purdue’s One Health framework, which seeks to integrate advancements in human, animal, and environmental health. As part of the study, researchers will examine the immunotherapy's impact on the dogs' antitumor immune responses. These findings could have significant implications for immunotherapy in both veterinary and human oncology.

The First Patient: Millie the Sheltie

Millie, a 10-year-old Shetland Sheepdog, was the first dog to receive the anti-cPD-L1 mAb. Shelties face a three- to fivefold higher risk of developing bladder cancer compared to mixed-breed dogs, according to Dr. Deborah W. Knapp, Director of WCORC and Distinguished Professor of Comparative Oncology. “We are thrilled that Millie has the opportunity to benefit from this novel therapy,” Dr. Knapp remarked.

Akston Biosciences’ Role

Akston Biosciences, which holds an exclusive licensing option for the anti-cPD-L1 mAb, plays a critical role in the trial. The company operates as a Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO), producing the antibody at its state-of-the-art facility in Beverly, Massachusetts. Akston’s pipeline also includes therapeutic candidates targeting chronic pain, atopic dermatitis, and obesity in animals.

Advancing Cancer Research

This pioneering trial represents a significant milestone in comparative oncology. By bridging veterinary and human cancer research, Purdue and Akston aim to pave the way for groundbreaking treatments that benefit patients across species.

For more information or to learn about participation, visit the Werling Comparative Oncology Research Center (WCORC) at Purdue.