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By Stephanie Modkins for Examiner.com

Researchers at the Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) and the Van Andel Research Institute (VARI) think dog saliva may be key to the treatment of cancer. What is the basis for their belief? Cancer along with many other diseases that occur in man also does in canines. Therefore, by studying the DNA in dog saliva, blood and tumors, answers to one of the most widespread diseases on earth may be found.

Under the program Canine Hereditary Cancer Consortium, researchers at TGen and VARI will collect samples of dog DNA from a variety of breeds. Their work will not harm any canines and all samples are voluntary. Then, with the data collected, they will create therapeutic remedies helpful to humans and dogs diagnosed with cancer. The hope is to stumble upon a cure.

Of course, a cure for cancer would be monumental. Most Americans have a friend, family member or work associate who has battled against this disease. Also, nearly half of all dogs 10 years and older die from cancer. A sure-fire effective treatment would end a lot of pain and suffering. So, the next time your dog slobbers all over your face, don’t stress. Your four-legged friend just might be the missing link to a few of your medical problems.