A gold-based drug that is already used for treating some immune diseases in both humans and animals may help in treating osteosarcoma, a type of both cancer, according to University of Florida veterinary researchers.

The researchers found that the medication, called gold salts (aurothiomalate), can keep cancer cells from developing. The lead author for this study was Valery Scharf, D.V.M. She said, “We also were able to demonstrate that the drug slows tumor growth and decreases metastasis when canine bone tumors were created in a mouse model.” She added. “This study shows that there is potential promise for the role of gold drugs as a part of bone cancer treatment in dogs and potentially in people, although more studies are needed before we can use them in a clinical setting.”

Osteosarcoma is common form of bone tumor seen in both dogs and humans. It is seen in 80% of canine cancerous tumors, and is common among large-breed dogs. Gold affects the immune system of the body and is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Gold salts, however, have been particularly investigated in recent years for treating various cancers.

This UF study found that low gold salt doses reduce the spread of cancer to lungs, which is the common spot where the cancer spread in dogs. High doses of gold salt reduced the microscopic spread of the cancer to the lungs and also the incidence of cancerous cell clusters in blood vessels.