Researchers in the United Kingdom have recently discovered how a specific human protein works to help cancer thrive, and their findings may prove helpful in fighting malignant mesothelioma.
Galectin-9 is a Protein Found in Mesothelioma Tumors
The study was conducted by researchers from the Medway School of Pharmacy, and though its focus was on all incurable cancers, its results are likely to get particular attention from scientists working to cure malignant mesothelioma. The group studied galectin-9, a protein that is found in all mammals and which is known to suppress the anti-cancer activities of T-cells.
Previous studies have identified galectin-9 as a promising biological target in malignant mesothelioma, whose tumors express high levels of the protein. But the new study aimed at identifying exactly how the protein functions.
Mesothelioma Cells Use Galectin-9 to Fend Off the Immune System
Malignant mesothelioma is notoriously resistant to traditional anti-cancer therapies, and galectin-9 plays an important role in the rare, asbestos-related cancer’s ability to fight off the immune system. Knowing that solid tumors at rest secrete very low amounts of the protein, the UK researchers set out to see whether and how T-cells induce cancer cells to secrete galectin-9. They discovered that the presence of the immune system cells activates a different biochemical mechanism that aids anticancer immune evasion.
Having a better understanding of the galactic-9 release mechanism helps those fighting malignant mesothelioma and other incurable diseases identify new targets for treatment. Speaking of their findings, Dr. Vadim Sumbayev, the research leader, said, “This knowledge would allow us to identify the best therapeutic targets on a personalized basis and design highly efficient drugs to interact with them in the desired way.”
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma, breakthroughs like these are encouraging. For information on available treatments and more, contact the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net today at 1-800-692-8608.
