Putting an end to malignant mesothelioma is the goal of physicians and researchers around the world, but the rare, asbestos-related disease continues to be an unsolved puzzle. While surgeons and oncologists work to find effective treatment protocols for removing tumors and preventing them from coming back, scientists are working at a molecular level. A recent discovery may represent a significant step forward.
Newly Discovered Protein Shows Potential to Suppress Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma researchers from the Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine and the Center for Biotechnology at Temple University in Philadelphia have published the results of their study of the protein KLHL14. In a paper titled “Characterization of KLHL14 anti-oncogenic action in malignant mesothelioma” published in the journal Heliyon, the scientists point to characteristics in the protein that may make it a powerful tumor suppressor.
Malignant mesothelioma cells are noted for their extreme aggression and ability to proliferate quickly. The researchers say that the protein KLHL14 prevents the epithelial-to-mesenchymal-transition that the cancer’s cells use to become more aggressive, but that siRNA targets that protein and allows the cells to move, invade, and form colonies in the body.
Mesothelioma Study Results Provide Insights to Disease’s Progression
Speaking of the results of their mesothelioma study, President and Founder of the Sbarro Health Research Organization at Temple University Antonio Giordano, M.D, Ph.D. said, “This research is an important step further to decipher KLHL14’s mechanism of action. Our findings contribute to the understanding of the molecular mechanisms regulating mesothelioma initiation and progression.”
His words were echoed by the senior author of the mesothelioma study Andrea Morrione, Ph.D., Research Professor at Temple University and Deputy Director of the Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine. “Our study provides the novel observation of a potential mechanism of KLHL14 regulation by a molecule called TGF-Beta.”
Dr. Morrione adds that though their investigation’s results are important, more work needs to be done. “Additional research is needed to understand the KLHL/TGF axis, and to potentially develop KLHL14-based drugs for mesothelioma and other deadly cancers with few treatment options.”
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma, this type of research offers hope for the future. For access to state-of-the-art care and other resources, contact the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net today at 1-800-692-8608.
