Classification and Prognostication of B-Cell and T-Cell Multicentric Lymphoma in Dogs Using Serum MicroRNAs

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Oncology
• Molecular Diagnostics
• Canine Cancer Research

Background:

• Canine multicentric lymphoma is common but often relapses.
• B-cell (BCL) and T-cell (TCL) lymphomas require different treatments.
• Current diagnostic methods like immunophenotyping are costly and sample-dependent.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish serum microRNA (miRNA) profiles for canine BCL and TCL.
• To evaluate the diagnostic potential of miRNA models for classifying lymphoma types.
• To assess the prognostic value of serum miRNAs in canine BCL.

Main Methods:

• Investigated 59 miRNAs using RT-qPCR in serum samples.
• Employed pruned decision tree models for classification and prognosis prediction.
• Analyzed differential expression between BCL, TCL, and control groups.

Main Results:

• Six miRNAs were differentially expressed between BCL and controls; three between BCL and TCL.
• A three-miRNA model achieved 83.02% accuracy in differentiating BCL, TCL, and controls.
• Another three-miRNA model stratified BCL cases by survival, indicating prognostic value.

Conclusions:

• Serum miRNA profiles can distinguish canine BCL from TCL and healthy controls.
• Multivariable miRNA models show promise for aiding lymphoma diagnosis.
• Serum miRNA analysis offers a non-invasive tool for canine lymphoma prognostication.