The successful electrochemotherapy of a zoo python signals emerging demand for human‑derived cancer treatments in veterinary medicine
Executive summary: A 15‑foot reticulated python named Jodie Foster at Chester Zoo received electrochemotherapy for a tumor in her jaw, becoming the first snake to undergo this human cancer therapy. The case shows that a treatment designed for humans can be effective in reptiles, opening a potential veterinary oncology market for electrochemotherapy.
Who is involved: Chester Zoo’s veterinary team, the python Jodie Foster, and the providers of the electrochemotherapy equipment.
Likely next: The zoo will continue to monitor Jodie Foster’s recovery and may publish the outcome as a case study for veterinary conferences.
On 21 August 2026, Chester Zoo announced that a 15‑foot reticulated python named Jodie Foster received electrochemotherapy for a malignant jaw tumor, the first recorded use of this procedure in a snake. The treatment, which combines chemotherapy with electrical pulses to enhance drug uptake, is already approved for certain human cancers. Veterinary staff reported the animal returned to its usual behaviour after the procedure, indicating a positive short‑term outcome. While the case is preliminary, it highlights a potential cross‑over avenue for oncology therapies from human to exotic animal patients.
Timeline
- — Python named Jodie Foster first snake to receive pioneering cancer treatment (The Guardian — Science)
Key entities
Sources
- Python named Jodie Foster first snake to receive pioneering cancer treatment — The Guardian — Science