August 2009

Clinical trials open for participation

In conjunction with the Cornell Feline Health Center, the Whittaker Lab in the Department of Microbiology & Immunology at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine is embarking on a regional study of feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) virus.

Research in our laboratory has led to new questions about how FIP is triggered in cats. In order to help illuminate what is happening with the virus, we need real-time samples from infected cats, ideally in the early stages of FIP. We would like to work in collaboration with the veterinarians in the field to track possible cases of FIP and obtain samples from client animals.

If you are interested in being involved in this study, participation would include providing fecal samples or swabs from client cats that may be in an early phase of FIP. We may also request a blood sample, if practical. If these animals are subsequently confirmed to have FIP we would request further samples from the client animal. Upon euthanization or death of the animal we would then need certain tissue samples (e.g. liver) and a follow-up fecal and blood sample.

We are hopeful that by acquiring a better understanding of how this virus adapts to an individual cat’s immune system that we will be able to formulate a successful method of treatment. Together, you and your clients can help drive the research, and ultimately help researchers in their attempts to solve this fatal feline disease.

Please note that this program is entirely voluntary and provides no compensation. If you would like to participate and would like further information please contact us at fcovstudy@cornell.edu.

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Development of a novel microscopy technique for the detection and diagnosis of lung cancers. In order to improve the diagnosis of lung cancers, the Hospital is participating in a collaborative study with other investigators from the Departments of Biomedical Sciences and Applied & Engineering Physics at Cornell University. The goal of this research is to develop multi-photon microscopy (MPM) as a real-time, on-site imaging technique for the diagnosis of lung cancer. This technique may help improve the early detection of lung cancers and may serve as a non-invasive means of diagnosing lung cancer. For more information, contact Dr. James Flanders at jaf7@cornell.edu.

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Granulomatous colitis/histiocytic ulcerative colitis (GC/HUC) in Boxer dogs. We are continuing to investigate GC/HUC in Boxer dogs. Recent work has shown a disease association with intramucosal E. coli invasion, and we hope to further unravel the disease pathogenesis. We would like to receive blood samples (EDTA, serum), pedigree information and colon biopsies (or recut slides) from affected dogs. For more information, contact Dr. Kenneth Simpson at kws5@cornell.edu.

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Prospective study on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in dogs (all breeds). This clinical study is sponsored by the Morris Animal Foundation and focuses on the relationship of the intestinal microflora to intestinal inflammation in canine IBD. In referred dogs diagnosed with IBD, we aim to follow a standardized approach to treatment, including the provision of prescription diet food for 6 months, coupled with extensive follow-up. For more information, contact Dr. Kenneth Simpson at kws5@cornell.edu.

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Protein-losing enteropathy (PLE) in Yorkshire Terriers. We appear to be seeing a greater incidence of PLE in Yorkshire terriers, and this has prompted investigation of the mechanisms responsible in order to inform case management. We are interested in seeing hypoproteinemic Yorkshire Terriers for investigation. Blood samples (EDTA, serum), pedigree information and a copy of the histology in previously diagnosed cases would also be very useful. For more information, contact Dr. Kenneth Simpson at kws5@cornell.edu.

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IBD in cats. Our recent work has shown significant changes in the small intestinal microflora in cats with IBD relatively to healthy cats. The density and composition of the mucosal flora is related to the presence and severity of intestinal inflammation in cats, suggesting that mucosal bacteria are involved in the etiopathogenesis of feline IBD. We are interested in seeing cats with chronic gastrointestinal signs for further investigation. For more information, contact Dr. Kenneth Simpson at kws5@cornell.edu.

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Characterization of phospholipase C zeta expression in fertile and subfertile stallions. Our laboratory has recently sequenced and characterized the expression of phospholipase C zeta (PLCz), a testis-specific enzyme crucial for fertility. We are seeking semen samples from subfertile stallions (i.e. pregnancy rates ≤40%) to ascertain whether alterations in the quantity or regional expression of PLCz might explain low pregnancy rates. For information on whether you are working with a stallion that is eligible or on how to ship samples, please call Sylvia Bedford at (607) 253-3420. We will cover costs of shipment and share our results, thus providing important information for the fertility evaluation of the stallion. Owner and stallion name will be kept confidential. For more information, contact Dr. Sylvia Bedford-Guaus at sjb55@cornell.edu.

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Investigation of Myocardial Disease as a Cause of Diminished Performance in Racehorses. The respiratory and musculoskeletal systems have been extensively researched in racehorses with poor performance but investigation of myocardial disease in those horses is limited. Drs. Kraus, Divers, Ducharme and others at Cornell have collaborated with Heska Corporation in validating a "point of care" instrument for measuring cardiac troponin I in horses. They are now in need of heparinized plasma samples taken 3-4 hours post race from horses that have experienced a sudden decline in performance that can not be readily explained by respiratory or musculoskeletal disorders. Samples would need to be frozen and sent to investigators who could report back findings the same day if needed. Please contact Drs. Kraus (msk16@cornell.edu), Divers (tjd8@cornell.edu), or Ducharme (ngd1@cornell.edu) if you are interested in participating as a co-investigator in this study.

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Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging Research Project: "Diagnostic accuracy of radiographs compared to ultrasound, in vomiting dogs with suspected gastrointestinal obstruction." is designed to help the clinician in selecting an appropriate imaging modality and what signs to look for when considering surgery in a vomiting patient. The information gained during this study may result in decreased patient morbidity, reduced hospitalization time, more efficient use of clinician time, and cost saving to the client. For more information, contact Dr. Margret Sara Thompson at mst42@cornell.edu.

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Calcitriol for Treatment of Mast Cell Tumors in Dogs. Calcitriol (vitamin D) inhibits the growth and progression of many types of tumors. Our preliminary data suggests calcitriol might be an effective treatment for dogs with mast cell tumors. The purpose of the study is to treat dogs with measurable mast tumors with calcitriol and evaluate tumor response. Dogs that have received prior prednisone or chemotherapy are eligible. Dogs entering this study will have a pre-treatment biopsy and pharmacokinetic samples collected after the first calcitriol dose. There is full funding for this clinical trial. For more information, contact Dr. Kenneth Rassnick at kmr32@cornell.edu.

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Phase II and III Trials of Calcitriol (1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol) and Cisplatin in Tumor-bearing Dogs. There is mounting evidence that vitamin D (calcitriol) can be used in the treatment of cancer. Calcitriol inhibits growth and progression of many tumor types and in laboratory models, calcitriol potentiates the antitumor activity of chemotherapy drugs. The purpose of the phase II study is to treat dogs with measurable tumors with combined cisplatin-calcitriol and evaluate tumor response. The purpose of the phase III study is to use the combination to treat dogs with aggressive tumors that have adequate local control but are at high risk for metastasis (spread). Partial funding is available for this clinical trial. For more information, contact Dr. Kenneth Rassnick at kmr32@cornell.edu.

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Streptozocin for Treatment of Canine Mast Cell Tumors. Only a limited number of cytotoxic drugs have activity against canine mast cell tumors. Streptozocin (STZ) is a chemotherapeutic that acts via alkylation of DNA. STZ is mainly used to treat people with insulinomas. Responses to STZ have also been observed in people with other types of tumors. Alkylating agents are diverse drugs and there is not cross-resistance between alkylating agents. This information and our success with the alkylating agent CCNU to treat canine mast cell tumors justifies investigating STZ. The objective of the proposed study is to evaluate the anti-tumor activity of STZ in dogs with nonresectable MCTs. Dogs that have received prior prednisone or chemotherapy are eligible. There is partial funding for this clinical trial. For more information, contact Dr. Kenneth Rassnick at kmr32@cornell.edu.

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Mitoxantrone plus DTIC vs. Single-Agent Mitoxantrone for Canine Lymphoma. Although many chemotherapeutic agents are available to treat relapsed canine lymphoma, the ideal treatment protocol is not yet established. The goal of this study is to compare the efficacy of Mitoxantrone plus DTIC vs. single-agent Mitoxantrone for dogs with resistant lymphoma. To enter, dogs must have failed prior therapy with doxorubicinc, vincristine, cytoxan and prednisone. Dogs will be randomized into 1 of 2 treatment groups: 1) Mitoxantrone + DTIC or 2) Mitoxantrone alone. Treatments are to be administered every 3 weeks for a total of 5 treatments. Weekly CBC's are required after the first treatment. Remission status is assessed prior to each treatment. Only dogs showing adequate remission status (partial or complete remission) will continue to receive treatment. There is partial funding available for this clinical trial. For more information, contact Dr. Kenneth Rassnick at kmr32@cornell.edu.

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Response of Feline Tumors to Individualized dose of Carboplatin. Carboplatin has potential antitumor activity against a variety of cancers in cats. In this study, we will determine if carboplatin causes regression of tumors. Cats with tumors that are non-resectable are candidates for this study. Clients that wish to pursue this therapy instead of standard therapy might also qualify. The dose of carboplatin will be prescribed based on an individual cat's kidney function (glomerular filtration rate). Kidney function will be measured using iohexol and the tumor will be measured. CBCs will be done weekly for 4 weeks. Only cats showing adequate remission (partial or complete remission) will continue to receive treatments every 4 weeks. For more information, contact Dr. Kenneth Rassnick at kmr32@cornell.edu.

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Prognostic Indicators in Canine Head Trauma. Although many prognostic indicators have been identified in people with traumatic brain injury (TBI), few have been identified in dogs with moderate to severe TBI. This study will evaluate the prognostic utility in dogs with naturally occurring TBI of several easily measured biochemical parameters that have been shown to have prognostic value in people with TBI, including blood glucose, sodium, cardiac troponin I, and acid-base parameters. These markers may offer useful information to clients who are trying to decide whether to treat or euthanize dogs with TBI, and may offer new therapeutic targets in these patients. For more information contact Dr. Dan Fletcher at djf42@cornell.edu.

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Prognostic Indicators in Canine Septic Peritonitis. Septic peritonitis is the most common cause of sepsis in dogs, and is associate with a 50% mortality. The aims of this study are to investigate the utility of several biomarkers, including ionized calcium and cardiac troponin I for predicting prognosis in dogs with septic peritonitis, and for diagnosing myocardial dysfunction in these dogs that may be responsive to inotropic support. The results of this study may improve our understanding of the basic biochemical derangements that occur secondary to septic peritonitis, and will provide valuable information to help guide treatment decisions for these challenging cases. For more information contact Dr. Dan Fletcher at djf42@cornell.edu.

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Early vs. Delayed Surgical Intervention in Canine Spontaneous Hemoabdomen. The American College of Veterinary Surgeons currently considers both immediate surgical intervention and delayed surgical intervention appropriate therapies for patients with spontaneous hemoabdomen. The aims of this randomized, prospective trial are to determine if there is a difference in length of hospitalization, cost of hospitalization, and use of blood products between dogs taken to surgery within 2 hours of diagnosis of
spontaneous hemoabdomen and dogs who receive 12 hours of stabilization prior to surgery. The results of this study will provide valuable, objective clinical data to support a rational, evidence-based standard of clinical care for dogs with spontaneous hemoabdomen. For more information contact Dr. Dan Fletcher at djf42@cornell.edu.

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Equine blood samples. Through a collaboration, the CUHA is collecting blood and abdominal fluid from normal foals, adult horses, and also foals and adults with gastrointestinal disorders. We are interested to see if there are differences in coagulation parameters that might make foals predisposed to abdominal adhesions. For more information contact Dr. Susie Fubini at slf3@cornell.edu.

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Cancer and cats. A study funded by the Morris Animal Foundation is being conducted by the Oncology Service at Cornell University on the use of orally administered docetaxel in cats with epithelial tumors that have measurable disease. Docetaxel is one of the most effective human anticancer drugs, and a high response rate has been observed in dogs with oral squamous cell carcinoma. A previously funded study determined the best dose of oral docetaxel as a prelude to the current study to evaluate the effectiveness of docetaxel in treatment of cats with epithelial cancer, specifically targeting oral squamous cell carcinoma. Two doses of docetaxel are administered two weeks apart to determine response. The study covers the cost of the drug, administration, recheck blood work and evaluations, and if there are side effects (primarily gastrointestinal) that require hospitalization.

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Use of the lidocaine iontophoresis hybresis patch for laminitis pain relief. We are looking for laminitic horses that need shoeing. Horses will enter study, get force plate analysis, have a lidocaine patch applied to their feet for hopeful analgesic anti-inflammatory effect once a day for 3 days, and have force plate analysis following removal of the patch on the third day. In addition to board and food for 3 days, free shoeing will be provided to the owners via CUHA's farrier after the clinical trial is performed. For more information, contact Dr. Andrea Looney at all11@cornell.edu.

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Use of neurolytic blockade for cancer pain and radiation treatment management. Dogs and cats will be pain scored by owners and techs prior to receiving a neurolytic blockade close to cancer site or placebo blockade on days 5 and 15 of radiation therapy. Pain scoring will follow the blocks weekly for 4 weeks as part of a double blinded placebo-controlled study to determine if the blockades are effective in the management of radiation induced pain. For more information, contact Dr. Andrea Looney at all11@cornell.edu.