Research on dogs could lead to better understanding of human cancer

STARKVILLE — A research team at Mississippi State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine is working to better understand cancer in dogs, and the work also could advance knowledge of human cancer.

Their investigation began with only a tiny blood platelet, but quickly they discovered opportunities for growth and expanding the breadth of the research.

Dr Camillo Bulla and Dr Kari Lunsford

“We have a lot to gain by looking at platelets and how they influence cancer and healing,” said Dr. Camillo Bulla. “A part of our research is looking at the platelet. The platelet is very small, but it gives us a large picture. We hope to be able to find a tumor much sooner by taking a series of blood samples to look at platelet contents.” read more...

Jackson Zoo expands partnership with Miss. State

Seated in photo from left: MSU-CVM Provost Jerry Gilbert, Mayor Tony T. Yarber, and Zoo Director Beth Poff signing the memorandum of understanding. (Photo: By Tom Thompson)

The Jackson Zoo's extended partnership with the Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine opens up opportunities for vet students and for research help on endangered and threatened species.
The move formalizes a years-long relationship where vet students worked with the zoo's consulting veterinarian Dr. Michael Holifield, an MSU-CVM alum, for hands-on learning. Zoo director Beth Poff said this is the next step to making the zoo part of the students' rotation. It welcomes students into the program next spring.
"Further down the road, we really wanted to make it a more of a concrete thing here at the zoo," Poff said, with an expanded veterinarian hospital, and classroom and dormitory space.  Read More...