In 2019, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the use of a unique non-invasive protocol for the treatment of malignant pleural mesothelioma. Branded as Optune Luna, Novocure’s TTFields treatment uses electrical fields to disrupt the rare form of cancer’s genetic code. Recently, the company’s researchers released new guidance on the electrical frequency that yields the greatest impact.
Tumor Treating Fields Can Shrink Mesothelioma Tumors
Though the Tumor Treating Fields technology was first introduced for the treatment of an aggressive brain cancer known as glioblastoma, the innovative device proved effective enough in treating mesothelioma that it became the first treatment to be approved by the FDA for 15 years.
Though the treatment has successfully slowed the growth of mesothelioma tumors, researchers are still working to understand exactly why the technology works. Novocure’s scientists recently released new information on what happens when the tumors are exposed to the vest-like device’s intermittent electrical signals, and the most effective frequency to which it should be set.
Weakening of Mesothelioma Cells’ Defenses Following Exposure to Electrical Signals
According to the Novocure researchers, the electrical signals that TTFields emits disrupt the genetic code within mesothelioma cells and scrambles the signals regarding the production of proteins they need to function. This prevents the malignant cells from continuing in their aggressive growth and division pattern, weakens the cells’ resistance to the effects of chemotherapy, and may bolster other proteins’ ability to cause cell death.
Writing of their findings in The International Journal of Radiation Oncology, Biology, Physics, lead author Helena Mumblat said, “Efficacy of TTFields for the treatment of MPM is associated with increased DNA damage, elevated levels of DNA-damage related cell cycle arrest proteins, and reduced expression of FA [repairing] pathway proteins.” Their study reported that the most damaging frequency setting is 150 kHz.
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma, new innovations offer hope for longer survival and improved quality of life. For information, contact the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net today at 1-800-692-8608.
