Golden retrievers, one of the most beloved dog breeds worldwide, have long been plagued by a high risk of cancer, with up to a 65% chance of succumbing to the disease. However, a recent breakthrough by researchers has shed light on a gene associated with increased lifespan in these golden canines.
In their quest to identify genetic factors influencing survival rates, the researchers focused not on cancer-related genes, but rather on those linked to longer lifespans. Their efforts led them to uncover a gene called HER4, which belongs to a family of proteins known to play a crucial role in human cancers.
The study, published in GeroScience, revealed that specific versions or variants of the HER4 gene were associated with an impressive increase in lifespan of nearly two years. This finding holds significant implications for both oncology and geroscience, as many cancers that afflict dogs are similar to those found in humans.
One of the researchers explained the motivation behind their research. They stated that the majority of golden retrievers likely have a genetic predisposition to cancer. However, if some of them are living to be 14, 15 or 16, there could be another genetic factor at play. The gene that emerged from their study is HER4.
HER4, also known as ERBB4, is a member of the human epidermal growth factor receptor family, sharing a genetic lineage with a well-known gene implicated in the rapid growth of cancer cells. The researchers highlighted the potential impact of this discovery on cancer studies in humans. If this variant in HER4 is important in the formation or progression of cancer in golden retrievers, or if it can modify cancer risk in this cancer-predisposed population, it may be something that can be used in future cancer studies in humans.
To investigate the role of the HER4 gene in golden retrievers’ longevity, the researchers analysed DNA samples from over 300 dogs. By comparing the genetic profiles of dogs that lived until 14 years of age with those that passed away before reaching 12, they observed a remarkable difference. Dogs carrying certain variants of the gene had an average lifespan of 13.5 years, whereas those without these variants lived for an average of 11.6 years.
The researchers noted that this nearly two-year difference is significant in a dog’s life. It is equivalent to a 15-20% increase in lifespan, which translates to 12-14 years in humans.
While acknowledging the complexity of cancer, the researchers emphasised the importance of this discovery. The fact that the gene associated with longevity is also involved in cancer was really interesting to them. This insight could potentially pave the way for future research into the development and progression of cancer in golden retrievers, with implications for human health as well.
Interestingly, the study also revealed that the gene variant seemed to have a more significant impact on the longevity of female dogs compared to males. HER4 has been shown to interact with hormones such as oestrogen and may also play a role in processing environmental toxins. These additional aspects of the gene’s function warrant further investigation to fully understand its influence on lifespan.
Looking ahead, the researchers aim to expand their study by enrolling a larger population of golden retrievers. This will allow them to replicate their findings and delve deeper into how this genetic variant affects the expression and function of the HER4 gene.
This groundbreaking research offers hope for golden retrievers and potentially holds promise for humans as well. By uncovering the genetic factors associated with increased longevity in these beloved dogs, scientists have taken a significant step towards understanding the complex nature of cancer and the mechanisms underlying ageing. The discovery of the HER4 gene opens up new avenues for future studies and interventions that may extend the lives of our faithful four-legged companions.
