Comparative medicine, particularly in cancer, genetic diseases and orthopaedics, combines our strengths in clinical oncology, medicine and surgery with our expertise in the molecular genetics of animal species. Through strategic collaborations with the Sanger Institute, the Cancer Research UK Institute and Division of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery in Cambridge, researchers are exploring opportunities to understand the genetic basis for many naturally occurring cancers and other diseases of domestic animals. The aim of this research is to drive translational breakthroughs through our internationally recognized oncology referral practice and our other clinical units.
Comparative medicine has always been a strong driver for research in the hospital. The accurate phenotypic characterisation of disease comprises the core of the research output and this has lead to deeper understanding of the pathobiology of natural diseases. This increased knowledge has also led to, and will continue to generate, improved methods of diagnosis and management of patients as well as the identification of new and emerging diseases.