Because malignant mesothelioma has proven so resistant to standard cancer treatments, researchers are constantly looking for a novel approach that will improve quality of life and extend survival. A recent study conducted by researchers at the Mayo Clinic has given rise to hopes that quinacrine – once the standard medication for malaria prevention – may enhance the impact of chemotherapy for 60% of mesothelioma patients.
Quinacrine Strengthens Cisplatin in Majority of Mesothelioma Patients
Though not originally intended for use in mesothelioma patients, quinacrine has long been of interest to those seeking answers for the rare, asbestos-related form of cancer. Previous studies have shown that when mesothelioma cells were treated with quinacrine, they stopped migrating and forming new colonies that eventually become tumors. More recently they’ve found that when combined with the chemotherapy drug cisplatin, it significantly enhances that drug’s effectiveness for a subset of patients.
An estimated 60 percent of patients diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma have an NF2-inactivating cellular mutation. The researchers found that quinacrine made cisplatin more lethal in mesothelioma, and this was particularly true for mesothelioma cells with this common mutation.
Quinacrine Demonstrates Multiple Ways of Slowing Mesothelioma
In applying quinacrine to mesothelioma cells, researchers had previously found that it can keep the aggressive tumors from forming new blood vessels as well as triggering cell death. The news that it can also make the cells more sensitive to cisplatin is considered promising by those in the scientific community.
Writing in the journal Frontiers in Pharmacology, lead researcher Derek Oien noted, “There are few common mutations in mesothelioma, and inactivating NF2 mutations are present in up to 60% of these tumors. This study suggests quinacrine may have repurposing potential for a large subset of mesothelioma patients.”
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma, promising research like this can make a real difference for you. For more information, contact the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net today at 1-800-692-8608.
