The study, which focused on squamous cells (HNSCC), an aggressive type affecting humans and cats, targeted the ‘STAT3’ molecule pivotal in tumor growth, according to ‘News Medical’. The case of the cat ‘Jack’ (9 years old) was highlighted; he was expected to have only a few weeks to live but survived over 8 additional months in better health after treatment. Researchers explained that the treatment works by inhibiting ‘STAT3’ and enhancing the ‘PD-1’ protein, which activates the immune response against cancer cells. Dr. Jennifer Grandis pointed out the importance of using cats as research models instead of mice to provide more realistic results, with potential benefits for treating both animals and humans.
