One Health: Therapies Targeting Genetic Variants in Human and Canine Histiocytic and Dendritic Cell Sarcomas

Abstract

The precise cause of HS/DCS is still unknown. The relatively low incidence in humans urges for an animal model with a high incidence to accelerate knowledge about genetics and optimal treatment of HS/DCS. Namely, until now, the therapies targeting genetic variants are still more experimental and sparsely used, while consensus is missing. In addition, the literature about variants and possible mutation‐targeted therapies in humans and dogs consists mainly of case reports scattered throughout the literature. Therefore, an overview is provided of all currently known genetic variants in humans and dogs with HS/DCS and its subtypes, their possible mutation‐targeted therapies, their efficacy, and a contemplation about the future. Several genetic variants have already been discovered in HS/DCS, of which many are shared between canine and human HS/DCS, but unique variants exist as well. Unfortunately, none of these already found variants seem to be specifically causal for HS/DCS, and the puzzle of its landscape of genetic variation is far from complete. The use of mutation‐targeted therapies, including MAPK‐/MEK‐inhibitors and the future use of PTPN11‐, CDK4/6‐ and PD‐1‐inhibitors, seems to be promising for these specific variants, but clearly, clinical trials are needed to determine optimal inhibitors and standardised protocols for all variants. It can be concluded that molecular analysis for variants and subsequent mutation‐targeted therapy are an essential addition to cancer diagnostics and therapy. A joint effort of humans and dogs in research is urgently needed and will undoubtedly increase knowledge and survival of this devastating disease in dogs and humans.