Source: New Atlas
A new Cornell University study highlights striking similarities between dogs and humans in how anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries develop and heal, offering a promising path for advancing treatment in both species. Researchers analyzed synovial fluid from injured and healthy knee joints, finding that over 60% of the proteins were shared between dogs and humans. Notably, 31 shared proteins were significantly altered in both species following ACL injury, suggesting common biological responses.
One protein, periostin, stood out as the most upregulated, linked to tissue repair but also to chronic inflammation and joint degeneration. These findings support using dogs as models for human joint injuries and could guide the development of new therapies. With dogs sharing our environment and lifestyle, the study underscores their value in translational research. Targeting periostin and similar proteins may lead to breakthroughs not just in ACL recovery, but also in treating arthritis, cancer, and cardiovascular disease.
Read the full story HERE: https://newatlas.com/medical-tech/osteoarthritis-anterior-cruciate-ligament-injury-dogs-treatment/