Invetus wows the crowd - Science week, 2017
/Science week was wonderful opportunity for Invetus.
Dr Elizabeth Evans presented an overview of the work of VCRN
We were able to inform companion animal specialist veterinarians and general practitioners about the clinical studies undertaken with the Veterinary Clinical Research Network (VCRN) over the last 12 months.
Invetus set up the VCRN over 2 years ago to conduct veterinary research in clinic, and has now worked with over 50 veterinary hospitals and specialists in Australia.
A number of veterinarians, residents and scientists presented 6 separate lectures at Science week in the Canine and Feline Medicine Chapter stream, which were well received by the vets in the audience.
A particular highlight was a fascinating update on theranostics by Dr Simon Puttick from the Uni of QLD/CSIRO. Simon’s team are trying to find a cure for brain tumours in humans and they are working with VCRN and five specialist hospitals in this endeavour. They are using advanced imaging techniques for dogs with brain tumours, including the latest MRI and PET scanning in human facilities. The next phase will involve a radiation treatment attached to an antibody to treat aggressive brain tumours in dogs as a model for human disease.
Dr Simon Puttick's presentation on brain tumour research was well recieved.
Other particularly interesting talks were from residents at Animal Referral Hospital (ARH) and Small Animal Specialist Hospital (SASH) in spinal malformations in dogs, and a personalised cancer vaccine for dogs with lymphoma.
Dr Elizabeth Evans of VCRN also presented the results of a pilot study into the safety and efficacy of once-daily transdermal methimazole in hyperthyroid cats. This medication treats cats with hyperthyroidism which is a common disorder in aged cats. The medication was found to be effective in reducing total thyroxine levels as long as the dose is titrated to the levels. The medication was generally well tolerated.
It was very pleasing that many veterinarians are willing to get involved in clinical trials, and have contacted Invetus asking how they can help. Invetus thanks the organisers and in particular the veterinarians who presented such interesting information on the trials they were involved in.
About Science Week:
Science Week is a highly successful three-day scientific meeting held under the auspices of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists (ANZCVS) at the same venue as the College oral/practical examinations and is a fantastic opportunity to attend cutting edge presentations covering a wide range of disciplines, and enjoy the collegial atmosphere engendered by College activities.
