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Dogs Overcoming Geriatric Memory & Aging
The DOGMA Initiative
Veterinary Health Research Centers (VHRC) launched DOGMA with a focus on enhancing the research capabilities of scientists investigating dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. This initiative arose from the need to find animal models that closely mimic human conditions, ensuring the relevance and effectiveness of interventions before their application to humans. Rooted in unveiling the initial signs of canine cognitive decline as a substitute for human dementia, DOGMA holds the promise of providing valuable insights and fostering hope for countless individuals grappling with degenerative conditions. The ultimate goal is to leverage research on canine cognitive decline to develop innovative solutions and therapies beneficial to both humans and animals.
As DOGMA evolved, its vision expanded significantly. Collaborating with researchers in various specialties, the VHRC team understood the potential to extend the innovative DOGMA methodology to various medical and surgical fields. They understand and recognize that the extensive translational capabilities of dogs offer a unique opportunity to address a wide range of medical challenges. Consequently, DOGMA has attracted interest and support for pioneering research in organ diseases, with an emphasis on understanding, treating, and potentially curing various organ-related ailments and advancing organ transplantation and regenerative medicine.
Moreover, DOGMA plans to explore the realm of rare diseases, with the ability to allocate resources to highlight conditions often overlooked in medical research due to their rarity. By innovating in this field, DOGMA aims to provide crucial support to researchers and individuals affected by rare diseases.
Cancer research is another key focus area for DOGMA. Investigating the canine olfactory system's capacity to detect cancerous cells has opened up new possibilities for early detection and diagnosis, paving the way for more personalized and effective treatment options.
Be sure to read the full article about the DOGMA Initiative online at the American Veterinary Medical Association website:
https://avmajournals.avma.org/view/journals/javma/261/11/javma.23.02.0095.xml
By diversifying its focus, DOGMA has transformed from its foundational emphasis on dementia. It has established itself as a dynamic and innovative player in the healthcare research arena.
Beyond these areas, DOGMA has extended its scope to include:
1
Cardiovascular Diseases:
Investigating conditions in dogs for detecting and managing heart-related conditions to alleviate the global burden of cardiovascular diseases.
2
Neurological Disorders:
Exploring canine abilities to aid research in neurological disorders such as Parkinson's, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis.
3
Autoimmune Diseases:
Studying canine detection and potential therapeutic applications in conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and type 1 diabetes.
4
Infectious Diseases:
Employing dogs' acute sense of smell for the early detection of infectious diseases like tuberculosis and malaria, contributing to global health initiatives.
5
Mental Health Disorders:
Evaluating how dogs can aid in understanding and managing mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
6
Pediatric Conditions:
Examining the role of dogs in researching and managing various pediatric conditions to improve child health outcomes.
7
Genetic Disorders:
Researching the potential of dogs in studying genetic disorders such as cystic fibrosis and muscular dystrophy.
8
Aging and Geriatrics:
Investigating how dogs can contribute to research in aging-related diseases and conditions, promoting healthy aging and longevity.