Traditionally, exploring the roots of malignant mesothelioma involves examining how the body’s cells respond when exposed to asbestos. But a group of researchers from the University of Pennsylvania has taken a different approach, exploring how asbestos particles change once introduced into the body. This unique perspective may lead to new approaches to treatment.
Mesothelioma Researchers Intrigued by Earth and Environmental Science Group’s Approach
Rather than being conducted by mesothelioma researchers or others treating asbestos-related diseases, the study published in Scientific Reports was the work of a group from Penn’s Department of Earth and Environmental Science in the School of Arts & Sciences, led by Reto Gieré.
Gieré contrasted his group’s goals with those of mesothelioma researchers, saying, “Many studies have looked at the toxicity of asbestos, and we wanted to approach this issue from the opposite side, not investigating the effects on the cells, but rather exploring what happens to the mineral once inside the cell …. What we saw is that the minerals are undergoing changes that almost look like they’re defending themselves from the cells.”
Group’s Work May Lead to New Approaches to Mesothelioma
While it is known that mesothelioma and other cancers develop when asbestos comes in contact with human tissues, the group used imaging technology with extremely high-spatial resolution to explore how asbestos responds to being absorbed by the cells. They found that the mineral changes. Its surface begins dissolving and formed an iron-rich layer. Gieré said, “It may be the cell is attempting to protect itself by triggering this change in the mineral, but it’s too early to say.”
The group theorizes that these changes in the mineral may be behind the body’s formation of tumors, but more studies will need to be conducted in order to fully understand how the dynamic unfolds.
If you or someone you love has been exposed to and sickened by asbestos, the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net are here to help. Call us today at 1-800-692-8608.
