Though it has been decades since scientists have proven that malignant mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos, the actual mechanism that drives the aggressive form of cancer has remained a mystery. Now researchers from the University of Colorado Anschultz believe that a protein present in our earliest development may be behind the tumors’ growth.
Protein Alters Mesothelioma Tumor Cells
According to Christian Mosimann, PhD and lead author of a study published in Nature Communications, a protein called Hand2 that controls cellular development in embryos is reactivated in mesothelioma cells. In developing embryos, the protein goes dormant in many tissues after development is complete.
Though they are not yet sure what role the Hand2 protein plays in malignant mesothelioma, the Colorado researchers suspect that it is reactivated by exposure to asbestos and returns to the role that it plays during embryonic growth, binding to genes and controlling the development of their cells.
Team Uses Zebrafish to Track Mesothelioma Tumor Growth
The development of mesothelioma tumors can be challenging to track in live organisms, but the Colorado team has adopted a novel approach, using fast-growing, translucent zebrafish to study how cell types form. In viewing the nearly see-through fish, they are able to view the mesothelium that covers the animals’ internal organs to assess how quickly the tumors are growing.
As they track the relationship between reactivation of the Hand2 protein in response to asbestos and the growth of mesothelioma tumors, the team hopes that the information they gather will contribute to finding a cure for the rare and deadly disease. They also hope to determine why only some cancers involve activation of the protein. Says Mosimann, “Now we’re investigating what causes this and what makes such mesothelioma tumors different from tumors that do not have Hand2 present.”
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma, you need accurate, reliable information. Contact the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net to learn about the resources we can provide.
