Our Research

The Jeong Lab advances veterinary cancer research at the intersection of genomics, functional oncology, and clinical pathology — improving outcomes for companion animals while advancing comparative medicine.

1. Mapping the Genomic Landscape of Feline Pancreatic Carcinoma

We investigate the molecular underpinnings and evolutionary trajectory of feline pancreatic cancer, with a focus on the genomic events that drive visceral carcinomatosis.

Whole genome sequencing pipeline

  • Laser capture microdissection enables precise isolation of cancerous and non-cancerous tissue regions for high-resolution genomic analysis
  • We reconstruct the evolutionary trajectory of primary tumor development and metastasis, providing new insight into the biology of feline visceral carcinomatosis
  • This project lays the groundwork for identifying early driver mutations and potential diagnostic or therapeutic targets

2. Precision Oncology Platform for Canine Pulmonary Carcinoma

By integrating patient-derived organoid models with genomic and histopathologic data, we aim to personalize treatment strategies for dogs with lung cancer.

Canine pulmonary carcinoma histopathology

  • Next-generation sequencing (NGS) identifies mutations and copy number alterations unique to each patient’s tumor
  • Organoid-based drug testing enables screening of both conventional and novel chemotherapeutic agents for individualized drug selection
  • This platform bridges bench-to-bedside translation, enabling functional genomics to inform real-time therapeutic decision-making

3. Real-Time Intraoperative Cancer Diagnosis and Margin Assessment

We are enhancing intraoperative cancer diagnostics to support the timely, accurate, and complete removal of tumors in veterinary patients.

Histopathology specimen for intraoperative assessment

  • We are optimizing cryosectioning methods and confocal laser endomicroscopy (CLE) for intraoperative tumor diagnosis and margin evaluations
  • This approach enables real-time assessment of surgical margins, reducing the need for repeat surgeries and improving patient outcomes
  • Our goal is to make rapid histopathologic feedback readily accessible in clinical settings

Interested in collaborating or joining our team? Get in touch →