TP53 gene mutations in canine osteosarcoma.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate mutations of the TP53 gene in canine osteosarcoma (OS).

STUDY DESIGN

Clinical historic cohort study.

ANIMALS

Client-owned dogs.

METHODS

OS (n=59) were screened for mutations of the complete TP53 gene using polymerase chain reaction and the mutation was analyzed by single-strand conformational polymorphism. Clinical outcome of dogs with TP53-mutated OS were compared with dogs with OS without a mutation after complete surgical excision of the primary tumor.

RESULTS

TP53 gene mutations were observed in 24 of 59 (40.7%) OS; 3 mutated OS had 2 mutations. The alterations consisted mainly of point mutations (74%). Dogs with mutated OS had a significantly shorter survival time (ST) after surgery than dogs with normal tumor TP53 gene expression (P=.03). Other significant prognosticators for ST and disease-free interval included elevated serum alkaline phosphatase (P<.01) and tumor grade (P=.01).

CONCLUSION

TP53 genetic mutations are common in canine OS and may have a prognostic value.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Mutations of the TP53 gene may influence survival and should be considered when evaluating canine OS.