Cases Report on Innovative Drug-Delivery System Containing Paclitaxel for Treating Canine Gliomas

In human and veterinary medicine, tumors such as glioblastoma represent an unfavourable diagnosis with short median survival. This study aims to evaluate a biological drug delivery system, micro fragmented adipose tissue (MFAT), that allows a slow release of paclitaxel (PTX) into spontaneously occurring gliomas in owned dogs. Methods: The study involved intratumoral treatment of gliomas in dogs using MFAT combined with PTX. The pharmacokinetic profile of the treatment was assessed, and quality-of-life scores were recorded. MRI scans and 3D rendering were used to measure tumor volume changes. Histological analysis was performed to evaluate the effects of the treatment on tumoral mass and surrounding brain tissue. Results: The intratumoral treatment showed no short- or mid-term adverse effects. The quality-of-life score was good in most cases. MRI scans and 3D rendering assessment revealed a decrease in tumor volume in 5 out of 6 dogs treated with MFAT+PTX, whereas all 3 dogs in the control group treated with temozolomide or lomustine showed continuous tumor volume increase. Histological analysis demonstrated that MFAT+PTX caused necrosis of the tumoral mass and a reactive glial-mesenchymal response, with no signs of neurotoxicity in the brain tissue apart from the treated focal tumor site. Conclusions: These preliminary results suggest that MFAT+PTX treatment may be a promising approach for glioma treatment in dogs, warranting further investigation with a larger group of canine patients. Moreover, these findings provide a proof of concept, demonstrating the safety and feasibility of this approach for potential human translational applications.