The Evan and Sue Ann Werling Comparative Oncology Research Center (WCORC) in the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine was formed to transform and grow research to improve the outlook for pet animals and humans facing cancer. The Center builds on a strong foundation in comparative oncology research that started with the Purdue Comparative Oncology Program in 1979.
Clinician scientists identify forms of naturally-occurring cancer in pet dogs that are similar to those same forms of cancer in humans. Subsequent studies are designed to be a "win-win-win" situation: the affected dog benefits by getting treatment for their cancer, the outlook for other dogs with that cancer may improve, and the successful results in dogs may lead to advances in humans with cancer.
The WCORC is also committed to providing compassionate care for pet animals with cancer, and for training the comparative oncology team of the future including veterinarians, veterinary technicians, veterinary oncology specialists, and other scientists.
Please join us for a special dedication ceremony honoring the legacy and vision behind the Evan and Sue Werling Comparative Oncology Research Center on Friday, May 23rd from 3 to 5pm EST. The ceremony will be held at the Dolores McCall Pet Tribute Garden at 625 Harrison Street in West Lafayette, Indiana.
During the ceremony, we will also unveil a heartfelt tribute: a statue of Brandi, Evan and Sue Werling’s beloved dog. Brandi was diagnosed with bladder cancer, and her journey became the inspiration for what is now a center of hope, healing, and groundbreaking research.
We hope you’ll join us as we celebrate this powerful story of love, legacy, and innovation.
The WCORC has specific emphasis areas in cancer research, including one in urinary bladder cancer. Urothelial carcinoma, or "TCC" (short for transitional cell carcinoma), has been heavily researched by veterinary oncologist and Director of the WCORC, Dr. Debbie Knapp. She has spent decades of her career making giant leaps in survival times and treatment methods for dogs with bladder cancer.
Although more common in canines, the WCORC offers services for both dogs and cats with TCC, such as cystoscopic biopsy for diagnosis, diagnostic imaging evaluation, and treatment options. In addition, Dr. Knapp and her team offer clinical trials for canine patients that qualify with this type of cancer.
Beginning in 2024, Dr. Knapp and her team will be hosting bladder screenings that will help dogs that are considered high-risk for bladder cancer. Ultrasound is a useful diagnostic tool for bladder cancer patients. It has helped Dr. Knapp determine specific treatment regimens for her patients and is used routinely to check the status of their disease. Ultrasound can also be used to help detect bladder cancer early and can be used as a preventative measure in these high risk breeds.
Learn more about ultrasound screening.
In addition to diagnosing and treating cancer in pet dogs and cats, the WCORC team diligently works in a laboratory setting to discover new ways to prevent and treat cancer.
Dr. Deepika Dhawan, head research scientist of the Knapp Lab, and Alex Enstrom, laboratory technician, conduct specific tests on samples from the patients involved in clinical trials. The WCORC has gained extensive knowledge that have produced new developments in cancer research not just for pets, but humans as well. The Center often joins forces with human research scientists and medical professionals to maximize their potential for new findings in a variety of cancer types.
