Ancient Dinosaur Cancer Discovery Offers Insights for Modern Treatments

A recent study has revealed the presence of cancer in a dinosaur, providing potential insights into the mechanisms of the disease that could benefit modern cancer treatment. Researchers from Anglia Ruskin University in the UK and the University of Bucharest in Romania conducted an analysis of the fossilized remains of a Telmatosaurus transsylvanicus, a dinosaur that lived approximately 66 to 70 million years ago in what is now Romania. Their findings, published in the journal *Biology* on June 13, 2025, indicate the existence of soft tissue structures resembling red blood cells, which were linked to a tumor in the dinosaur's jaw.

The discovery of these erythrocyte-like structures suggests that soft tissues may be preserved in fossils more frequently than previously thought, opening new avenues for understanding diseases in ancient organisms. "Unlike skeletal structures, soft tissues contain proteins that provide molecular information revealing the biological mechanisms of disease," stated Dr. Justin Stebbing, an oncologist at Anglia Ruskin University and co-author of the study. He emphasized that such research could significantly contribute to future cancer research by uncovering evolutionary adaptations to cancer in long-lived species.

The Telmatosaurus, a herbivorous dinosaur that reached the size of a cow, was found to have an ameloblastoma, a type of tumor still seen in humans today. This finding raises questions about how cancer has changed over millions of years and how affected species might have adapted. "Dinosaurs, being large-bodied organisms that lived for extended periods, provide a unique opportunity to study cancer susceptibility and resistance over evolutionary time," Dr. Stebbing explained.

The research highlights the importance of preserving fossil samples for future scientific inquiry. As Dr. Stebbing pointed out, advancements in analytical techniques will be limited without access to suitable specimens. The study's findings underscore the potential of using ancient biological materials to inform contemporary medical treatments. As further research continues, scientists hope that understanding the evolutionary history of cancer could lead to innovative prevention and treatment strategies in humans.

In addition, the study's implications extend beyond mere curiosity about dinosaurs. Large mammals, such as elephants and whales, have developed mechanisms to protect themselves from cancer, and uncovering similar adaptations in dinosaurs may yield valuable insights into cancer biology. As fossil conservation efforts are prioritized, researchers remain optimistic that these ancient specimens will provide critical data for ongoing cancer research.

Overall, this groundbreaking discovery not only enriches our understanding of dinosaur biology but also offers a promising perspective on cancer research, illustrating the intricate connections between ancient life forms and contemporary medical challenges.