Characterization of Chromosomal Translocations in Canine Solid Tumor Genomes

Abstract

In canine solid tumors, genetic alterations are crucial for initiating and advancing tumor growth, leading to modifications in the originatingtissue and shaping the tumor’s developmental course. Structural variants, including inversions, deletions, and translocations, are hallmarksof most cancer genomes and are causatively linked to tumorigenesis. Histopathology was used to confirm tumor type, while structuralgenomic alterations were identified through whole-genome sequencing. The examination of 4 tumors and 52 normal whole-genomesequences enabled a precise exploration of the genetic foundations of solid tumor biology, particularly the pattern of somatic structuralvariation. Structural variants in tumor samples were predominantly found in genes involved in the RTK–Ras–MEK–ERK signaling pathway,as well as in those regulating apoptosis and cell survival. Among the structural variants discovered, the detection of STARD4 in thesolid tumor group, which is related to cholesterol regulation, indicates a potential common pathway in tumorigenesis. This researchhighlights the genetic intricacy of tumors and underscores the importance of personalized strategies for diagnosis and prognosis, employingcomprehensive genetic profiling.