This purpose of this pilot study is to evaluate the safety and activity of a STING agonist compound to stimulate the immune system to attack cancer cells in dogs with malignant melanoma, mammary carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma on the head or neck, and high grade soft tissue sarcoma. Other solid tumors may qualify as well. 

Eligibility

In order to be eligible dogs must:

• Weigh 33 lbs or more
• Have a diagnosis of a solid, malignant tumor type such as:
  • Malignant melanoma
  • Mammary carcinoma
  • Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the head or neck
  • High grade soft tissue sarcoma
  • Osteosarcoma (if amenable to repeat biopsy)

Prior treatment is permitted as long as there is a measurable tumor present. Anticipated study duration is 6 weeks. The trial includes an initial staging appointment, two immunotherapy treatments requiring overnight stays in the hospital, and surgery. All appointments require the ability to travel to Ryan Veterinary Hospital in Philadelphia, PA and adherence to the study schedule. 

Benefits

All study specific visits, including staging and surgery, covered by the study. 

Contact

If interested, call the VCIC department at 215-573-6610 or email the study coordinator, June, at jchiango@upenn.edu.