Gene Expression of Hormone Receptors and Growth Factors in Intact and Spayed Female Dogs, Healthy and with Cutaneous Mast Cell Tumors

Mast cell tumor (MCT) is the most common cutaneous neoplasm in dogs, and accumulating evidence suggests that reproductive status and associated hormonal changes may influence its development and biological behavior. Gonadectomy induces profound alterations in gonadotropin levels and may modulate the expression of hormonal receptors and key molecular pathways involved in tumor growth, proliferation, and angiogenesis. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these associations in canine MCT remain poorly characterized.The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression of genes related to angiogenesis, cell proliferation, hormonal signaling, and tumor progression in the skin of intact and spayed female dogs, with and without MCT. By comparing molecular profiles across defined reproductive and disease-status groups, this work seeks to contribute to a better understanding of the potential role of reproductive hormones and their receptors in the pathobiology of canine mast cell tumors.