Before it was known that asbestos exposure causes malignant mesothelioma and numerous other serious and deadly diseases, the mineral was considered invaluable for its strength and heat resistance. While its use is now banned in many countries, powerful industry lobbyists have fought this action in the United States, and its use and presence in existing structures remains a health concern. Now, researchers may have found a way to reduce the mineral’s toxicity.
Researchers Say Marine Bacteria May Be Able to Detoxify Asbestos
Though the mechanism by which asbestos causes malignant mesothelioma is still not well understood, there is no question that the mineral is a potent health hazard. In an effort to improve upon current detoxification strategies, researchers from the University of Pennsylvania Department of Earth and Environmental Science explored the use of marine microbes in asbestos bioremediation.
Researchers Ileana Perez-Rodriguez, Ph.D., and Reto Giere, Ph.D. were aware that the two aspects of asbestos that lead to malignant mesothelioma when inhaled are their iron content and their fibrous structure. Because extemophilic deep sea microbes use inorganic compounds and interact with minerals in their natural environments, they believed they might be able to detoxify the asbestos. Their tests have offered reason for optimism.
Research May Lead to Safer Disposal or Reuse of Asbestos
The researchers were especially motivated to conduct this research based on recent mesothelioma fears in the nearby Philadelphia School District. One long-time teacher in the district has been diagnosed with the rare asbestos-related disease, and several schools have been closed due to continued detection of the toxic mineral in classrooms, hallways, and other areas. The University of Pennsylvania has pledged $10 million a year for ten years to help remediate these and other environmental hazards within the school buildings.
Speaking of their research efforts, Dr. Perez-Rodriguez said, “We wanted to expand asbestos bioremediation research by exploring ways to lower the toxicity of these minerals for safer disposal or reuse as secondary raw materials…. This is a gradual process of taking a highly hazardous mineral and making it less hazardous.” With continued research, there is hope that their work will help reduce the risk of mesothelioma in the future.
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma, the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net can help. Contact us today at 1-800-692-8608.
