Differential gene expression associated with tumorigenicity of cultured green turtle fibropapilloma-derived fibroblasts

Perspectives on the expansion of human precision oncology and genomic approaches to sea turtle fibropapillomatosis

Our recent Communications Biology research article revealed the genomic drivers and therapeutic vulnerabilities of sea turtle fibropapillomatosis tumors. Fibropapillomatosis is a debilitating tumorous disease afflicting populations of green sea turtles globally. While a virus is involved in the development of this disease, it is increasingly understood that the key trigger is linked to anthropogenic disturbances of the environment. The specific environmental co-trigger(s) has yet to be functionally confirmed. Here we outline the next steps required to advance our understanding of this enigmatic disease, to enable us to more effectively clinically combat it and to ultimately tackle its environmental co-trigger to halt and hopefully reverse the spread of fibropapillomatosis.

Wildlife cancer: a conservation perspective

Until recently, cancer in wildlife was not considered to be a conservation concern. However, with the identification of Tasmanian devil facial tumour disease, sea turtle fibropapillomatosis and sea lion genital carcinoma, it has become apparent that neoplasia can be highly prevalent and have considerable effects on some species. It is also clear that anthropogenic activities contribute to the development of neoplasia in wildlife species, such as beluga whales and bottom-dwelling fish, making them sensitive sentinels of disturbed environments.