Principal Investigator: Andrew White

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): 

The spiny mouse’s unique ability to regenerate tissue without scarring sets it apart from most other mammals. Recently, we discovered that spiny mice also possess a remarkable ability to resist skin cancer development when compared to the standard laboratory mouse. Our preliminary evidence suggests a link between the spiny mouse’s regenerative response and the prevention of tumor formation.

During a year-long study, we found that lab mice developed extensive skin tumors within weeks, while spiny mice exhibited no comparable tumors. These findings suggest that spiny mice possess unique mechanisms of cancer resistance, which are yet to be uncovered. This proposal aims to delve into determining the mechanisms behind the spiny mouse’s remarkable resistance to cancer.

This study has two primary objectives. First, we aim to determine if programmed cell death of potentially cancerous cells is crucial in preventing skin tumors in spiny mice. We will investigate how cell death of mutated skin cells occurs in spiny mice following a regeneration response and whether inhibiting this process can lead to tumor development. The second objective aims to identify and characterize specific cell populations in spiny mouse skin during regeneration and prior to the clearance of mutated cells. This is a crucial step toward defining the molecular underpinnings of their resistance to cancer.

Lessons learned from the spiny mouse could lead to entirely different and paradigm-shifting ideas for cancer prevention and intervention. Following completion of the experiments outlined in this proposal, we will test whether engineering molecular methods used by spiny mice into lab mice will enhance their ability to resist cancer. Ultimately, we aim to apply insights from spiny mice to benefit human health.