By Dr. Nihan Marun, DVM, Ph.D. Microbiology

 

Introduction

Over the past 20 years, I’ve had the privilege of observing the rapid evolution of animal healthcare from two unique perspectives—as a scientist and a businesswoman. My journey, spanning both research environments and international business settings, has given me a front-row seat to how science and innovation are reshaping veterinary care across the globe.

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In that time, I’ve watched breakthroughs in genomics, pharmacology, and biotechnology drive a major shift in how we care for animals. One advancement that stands out to me is the rise of personalized veterinary medicine—also known as precision veterinary medicine. It’s more than just a trend; it’s a shift from one-size-fits-all approaches to treatments tailored to an animal’s unique genetic profile, lifestyle, and environment.

As someone who has followed these changes closely, I’ve seen how genetic research is helping veterinarians better understand diseases and how animals respond to medications—a field known as pharmacogenomics. I’ve also witnessed how technology and data are playing an increasingly important role in early detection, prevention, and treatment planning. Further, I’ve had the opportunity to observe the impact of these advancements through my conversations with researchers, veterinarians, and industry leaders. Their work, combined with the power of emerging technologies, is driving real progress in veterinary care.

 

In this article, I’ll share my perspective on how personalized veterinary medicine is shaping the future of animal healthcare and why these changes are so important for animals, veterinarians, and pet owners alike.

 

Genomic Insights and Precision Diagnostics

Unlocking the Genetic Code Genomics is at the heart of personalized veterinary medicine. By studying animal genomes, researchers can uncover genetic markers for diseases, enabling early detection and targeted prevention strategies. A significant milestone in feline genomic research was the 9 Lives Cat Genome Sequencing Initiative. Led by Dr. Leslie Lyons at the University of Missouri-Columbia, this Winn-funded project was pivotal in advancing cat genetics research. It was the first initiative to propose whole-genome sequencing of cats beyond a single reference genome. The project sequenced the genomes of ten cats with various heritable diseases and traits to identify mutations responsible for those conditions.

 

Some notable outcomes from the 9 Lives Initiative include:

• Inherited Blindness in Bengal and Persian Cats: Researchers identified DNA variants responsible for two different types of inherited blindness. Genetic tests for these conditions became available through the UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory and Langford Veterinary Services, allowing breeders to prevent the birth of blind cats even before formal scientific publications were released.

• Other Genetic Discoveries: Variants causing bobbed tails and curled ears were also identified. Additionally, progress was made in mapping regions linked to inherited hydrocephalus, silver coat color, brachycephaly (shortened skull shape), and LaPerm traits.

 

The 9 Lives Initiative laid the foundation for the larger 99 Lives Cat Genome Sequencing Project, which now includes data from 51 domestic cats. Researchers from over a dozen institutions are using this database to explore complex diseases such as diabetes, feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), and heart disease. Additional breakthroughs from this expanded research include:

• Devon Rex Myopathy (Spasticity): The University of Missouri laboratory identified a mutation causing this muscle disorder, which also serves as a model for human congenital myasthenic syndrome.

• Cutaneous Asthenia: A mutation was found to cause this skin disorder, similar to Ehlers-Danlos syndrome in humans.

• Lymphadenopathy in British Shorthair Cats: The team identified genetic markers for this condition.

 

This research is not limited to domestic cats. Wild cats are also benefiting from these advancements:

• Retinal Degeneration in Black-Footed Cats (Felis nigripes): A genetic cause of vision loss was discovered, aiding conservation efforts for this vulnerable species.

• Polycystic Kidney Disease in Pallas Cats (Otocolobus manul): A mutation responsible for kidney disease was identified, providing insights for better health management in captive populations.

 

On the other hand, in canines, genomic research has been instrumental in identifying breed-specific predispositions to diseases such as:

• Hip Dysplasia: Common in large breeds like German Shepherds and Labradors.

• Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM): A heart condition prevalent in Doberman Pinschers.

• Degenerative Myelopathy (DM): A neurological disease similar to ALS in humans.

These insights enable preventive care strategies, from tailored exercise regimens to specialized diets, potentially delaying or preventing disease onset.

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Pharmacogenetics: Customizing Drug Therapies for Animals

Pharmacogenetics, the study of how genetic differences influence drug responses, is revolutionizing veterinary medicine by enabling treatments tailored to each animal's unique genetic makeup.

A pivotal discovery in this field is the identification of the MDR1 (Multidrug Resistance 1) gene mutation, which affects drug metabolism in several herding dog breeds. In 2001, Dr. Katrina Mealey at Washington State University uncovered that dogs with this mutation are highly sensitive to certain medications, including:

• Ivermectin (used for parasite prevention)

• Loperamide (an anti-diarrheal medication)

• Vincristine and Doxorubicin (chemotherapy drugs)

This groundbreaking research has had a direct clinical impact. Genetic testing for the MDR1 mutation is now standard practice for herding breeds, allowing veterinarians to tailor drug choices and dosages, thereby minimizing adverse reactions and improving patient outcomes.

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The field of pharmacogenetics is rapidly expanding. Current research is investigating genetic markers that affect responses to:

• Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Widely used for pain management, NSAIDs can cause severe side effects in genetically predisposed animals.

• Antibiotics: Understanding genetic factors influencing antibiotic metabolism is crucial in combating antimicrobial resistance, a growing concern in both human and veterinary medicine.

 

By integrating pharmacogenetic insights into clinical practice, veterinarians can provide more effective and safer treatments, ushering in a new era of personalized medicine for animals.

 

Personalized Probiotics: Can We Unlock the Microbiome for Tailored Pet Health?

In recent years, veterinary science has focused on the intricate relationship between an animal's gut microbiome and its overall health. This exploration has opened avenues for individualized treatments, particularly through the use of probiotics, to address various health concerns in pets. The gut microbiome, a complex community of microorganisms residing in the digestive tract, plays a pivotal role in digestion, immune function, behaviors, and overall well-being.

 

Probiotics: Personalized Approaches

Probiotics, which are live beneficial bacteria, have been studied for their potential to restore and maintain a healthy gut microbiome in dogs. Research indicates that specific probiotic strains can be tailored to an individual dog's needs, offering targeted therapeutic benefits:

• Gastrointestinal Health: Studies have shown that administering probiotics can alleviate symptoms of acute and chronic enteropathies in dogs, improving stool consistency and reducing diarrhea.

• Immune System Support: Certain probiotic strains may enhance immune responses, aiding in the prevention of infections and supporting overall health.

• Allergy Management: Emerging evidence suggests that probiotics can play a role in managing skin allergies by modulating the immune system and improving gut health.

 

Recent Advances and Applications

The field is rapidly evolving, with notable developments enhancing our understanding and application of individualized probiotic therapies:

• Synbiotic Formulations: Combining prebiotics (non-digestible fibers that feed beneficial bacteria) with probiotics, known as synbiotics, has shown promise in promoting gut health and microbial diversity. Studies highlight that such combinations can lead to significant positive shifts in the gut microbiota of dogs.

• Breed-Specific Microbiome Research: Investigations into the gut microbiota of different dog breeds have revealed unique microbial signatures, suggesting that personalized probiotic treatments could be developed to cater to breed-specific health needs.

• Innovations in Probiotic Products: Researchers at the University of Concepción have developed a novel probiotic specifically designed for pets, utilizing strains derived from the maternal milk of dogs and cats. This product aims to enhance digestive health and immunity in pets, marking a significant advancement in veterinary probiotics.

 

Artificial Intelligence and Big Data: Shaping the Future of Veterinary Diagnostics

Artificial intelligence (AI) and big data are revolutionizing veterinary diagnostics, offering tools that enhance accuracy and efficiency in animal healthcare. By analyzing vast datasets, AI enables veterinarians to detect diseases earlier and tailor treatments more precisely.

 

Applications of AI in Veterinary Research

• Imaging Analysis: AI algorithms can scrutinize X-rays, MRIs, and ultrasounds, identifying subtle anomalies that might escape human detection. This capability improves diagnostic accuracy and expedites treatment planning.

• Predictive Modeling: By examining patterns in extensive datasets, AI can pinpoint risk factors for diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and kidney disease. This predictive power facilitates proactive healthcare measures, potentially extending the lives of animals.

• Clinical Decision Support: Integrating patient data with AI systems provides veterinarians with personalized treatment recommendations based on real-world outcomes. This support enhances clinical decision-making and optimizes patient care.

 

Research Insight: In a recent study, researchers developed an AI-based system to detect lameness in horses using pose estimation techniques. This non-invasive approach analyzed gait patterns captured through video, successfully identifying early-stage lameness before clinical symptoms were visible. Such early detection enables timely interventions, improving treatment outcomes for equine patients.

The integration of AI and big data into veterinary diagnostics signifies a transformative shift towards more precise and effective animal healthcare. As these technologies continue to evolve, they promise to enhance the capabilities of veterinary professionals and improve the well-being of animals.

 

Wearable Technology and Remote Monitoring: Advancing Research Through Continuous Data Collection

Wearable technology is transforming veterinary research by enabling continuous monitoring of animal health. Devices equipped with sensors provide real-time data, offering insights into an animal's well-being that were previously unattainable.

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Examples of Wearable Devices in Veterinary Research:

• Smart Collars: These devices monitor vital signs, activity levels, and sleep patterns, supplying valuable data on an animal's behavior and health. For instance, companies like Whistle produce collars that track a pet's location and activity, aiding in health monitoring.

• Gait Analysis Sensors: Wearable sensors assess stride patterns in horses, assisting in the early detection of lameness. Research initiatives, such as those at The Ohio State University, are developing wearable devices combined with machine learning to evaluate factors associated with canine agility performance, aiming to prevent injuries.

• Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs): Devices like the FreeStyle Libre measure interstitial glucose levels in diabetic dogs and cats, providing real-time data that revolutionizes diabetes management. These monitors attach to a patient for up to two weeks, offering continuous glucose readings and reducing the need for frequent blood draws.

These technologies are particularly valuable in longitudinal studies, where continuous data collection can reveal trends and correlations that periodic check-ups might miss.

 

Research Insight: In a study involving diabetic cats, the use of CGMs allowed for continuous monitoring of glucose levels, leading to more accurate insulin dosing and better glycemic control. This approach has improved the management of feline diabetes, enhancing the quality of life for these pets.

The integration of wearable technology into veterinary research not only enhances the understanding of animal health but also paves the way for more personalized and effective treatments.

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Regenerative Medicine and Advanced Therapies: Pioneering New Treatment Frontiers

My background in microbiology has led me to closely observe the exciting progress in regenerative medicine—especially in areas like stem cell therapy, gene therapy, and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy. These cutting-edge approaches are reshaping how we manage chronic and degenerative diseases in animals, offering new hope for conditions that were once considered untreatable.

 

Stem Cell Therapy: Promising Results in Restoring Function

• Osteoarthritis in Dogs: Research has shown that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from adipose (fat) tissue can help reduce joint inflammation and improve mobility in dogs with osteoarthritis. Clinical studies highlight significant improvements in pain scores and activity levels following stem cell injections.

• Tendon and Ligament Injuries in Horses: Studies, such as those from the Royal Veterinary College, have demonstrated that stem cell therapy not only accelerates recovery in horses with tendon injuries but also reduces the risk of re-injury—a major challenge in equine sports medicine.

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Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: Supporting Healing Naturally

• Joint and Soft Tissue Injuries: PRP, which uses a pet’s own blood to promote healing, is becoming a popular treatment for joint injuries and post-surgical recovery. According to research published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science, PRP has been shown to accelerate healing and reduce inflammation in dogs with musculoskeletal injuries.

 

Challenges Facing Personalized Veterinary Medicine

While the potential of personalized veterinary medicine is immense, several challenges must be addressed for widespread implementation:

​1. Cost and Accessibility: Advanced diagnostics, like whole-genome sequencing, are often expensive, making them less accessible to many pet owners. Further, many insurance plans don't cover personalized treatments, posing financial barriers.

2. Data Integration and Standardization: There's a need for unified systems that combine genomic, clinical, and wearable data to enhance research and treatment. Also establishing protocols for data sharing while protecting privacy is essential for collaborative efforts.

3. Knowledge and Training Gaps: The rapid evolution of personalized medicine requires ongoing learning for veterinary professionals. Combining knowledge in genomics, bioinformatics, and AI is crucial, but current training programs may not adequately address this integration.

4. For the Microbiome Era: More extensive, controlled clinical trials are necessary to confirm the efficacy of specific probiotic strains and formulations in diverse canine populations. On the other hand, establishing standardized guidelines for the production and use of probiotics in veterinary medicine is crucial to ensure product quality and safety.

 

The Road Ahead: Opportunities in Personalized Veterinary Medicine Research

Looking to the future, I believe that several advancements will shape the trajectory of personalized veterinary medicine:

​1. Large-Scale Genomic Studies: Initiatives like the Dog10K Project aim to sequence the genomes of 10,000 canines, providing comprehensive insights into genetic variations that influence disease susceptibility and treatment responses.

2. AI-Driven Multi-Omics Integration: By combining data from genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, artificial intelligence enables a holistic understanding of animal health at the molecular level, facilitating more precise diagnostics and therapies.

3. Precision Microbiome Research: Investigating the gut microbiome's role in immunity and chronic diseases may lead to personalized probiotic treatments tailored to individual animals' needs.

4. Telemedicine and Digital Health Innovations: The integration of genomic data and wearable technology into digital health platforms enhances remote monitoring and early disease detection, improving overall animal care.

These developments underscore a shift towards more individualized and effective veterinary care, leveraging cutting-edge research and technology to meet each animal's unique health requirements.

 

The Future Is Personalized

In my 20 years as a veterinary researcher, I have seen firsthand how scientific advancements can translate into life-changing outcomes for animals. Personalized veterinary medicine is more than just a technological breakthrough—it is a paradigm shift that places the individual animal at the center of care.

 

This field isn’t just about technology or data; it’s about improving lives. Personalized medicine has the power to transform how we prevent, diagnose, and treat diseases, offering solutions tailored to each animal’s unique genetic profile, lifestyle, and needs. Advancing this field requires more than scientific discovery; it calls for collaboration. Researchers, clinicians, and industry leaders must work together to turn research into reality. The future of veterinary medicine will be shaped not only by those in clinics but also by those in laboratories and academic institutions who push the boundaries of what’s possible and translate that knowledge into real-world care.

 

The path forward is clear: a future where every animal receives care as unique as their DNA. That’s not just a vision! It’s a goal worth working toward.