A group of researchers from cancer centers in Vienna has announced that they’ve identified a therapeutic target that, when inhibited, enhances mesothelioma tumors’ sensitivity to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The group believes that this approach may yield a novel and effective treatment approach for the rare, asbestos-related disease.
YB-1 Represents a Novel Treatment Approach for Pleural Mesothelioma
Malignant pleural mesothelioma is a notoriously difficult cancer to treat. It has proven resistant to traditional protocols and left patients and their physicians with few options. In response, researchers are working hard to leverage innovative technologies to identify new therapeutic targets and approaches.
The Viennese mesothelioma researchers, led by Karin Schelch and Michael Grusch from MedUni Vienna, identified an oncoprotein called YB-1 as a potential target for indirect targeting. They based their inquiry on findings that show YB-1 is involved in regulating multiple traits of the cancer’s cell growth, cell death, and migration, as well as its role in drug response. Previous studies have shown that by inhibiting YB-1 using small interfering RNA, tumor growth was significantly reduced.
Researchers Identify Method of Inhibiting YB-1 in Mesothelioma Cells
With no YB-1 inhibitors available, the mesothelioma researchers pursued an indirect route, using a novel class of small-molecular therapeutics called Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) to modify its function. The approach proved to be very effective, demonstrating strong interactions with cisplatin chemotherapy, which was linked to significantly increased cellular platinum uptake. The combination of the HDACi and cisplatin resulted in stronger growth inhibition than using either treatment alone.
In comments about the mesothelioma study results, Karen Schelch said, “These data go hand in hand with another study performed in parallel in Small Cell Lung Cancer where we showed similar synergistic effects between these two drugs.” The group will continue its studies in hopes that it can further be demonstrated as an effective treatment.
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma, studies like these represent significant hope. For information on other resources, contact the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net today at 1-800-692-8608.
