RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS OF THE 28th ECVIM-CA CONGRESS

Inflammation mediated by the cyclooxygenase enzymes supports the development of cancer by stimulation of angiogenesis, inhibition of apoptosis, and promotion of cell proliferation and motility. These enzymes convert arachidonic acid to prostaglandins, of which the most active product is PGE2. This prostaglandin drives cell proliferation, apoptosis, and angiogenesis through interaction with its specific receptors (EP1 receptor ‐ EP4 receptor [EP1R‐EP4R]). In particular, the expression of EP4R is associated with the development of malignancy and poor prognosis in multiple human cancers. Expression of EP2R has been confirmed in canine osteosarcoma. Characterization of the canine EP4R has been completed, however expression of EP4R in canine osteosarcoma has not been evaluated.