The mesothelioma cancer charity Mesothelioma UK has shared details of a six-month research project aimed at characterising a new target for cancer treatment, which could be to the significant benefit of patients suffering from this asbestos-related cancer.
This latest research study, funded by Erase Meso, was created with the intention of characterising a new target for cancer treatment that may potentially lead to new treatments for asbestos-related cancer sufferers. According to the article published by Mesothelioma UK on its website, the research team is focusing on an enzyme named ‘MDIG’. Using oxygen, this enzyme acts as “a cellular switch.”
MDIG is already known to be persistently active in several tumour types but hasn’t been previously investigated for the purpose of treating mesothelioma cases. The research findings showed high levels of MDIG in laboratory-grown mesothelioma cells. The research additionally suggests that the enzyme is required for the maximal growth rate of these cells. These results could suggest that targeting MDIG could result in new advances of mesothelioma treatment.
Founder of Erase Meso, Paul Cook, said: “At Erase Meso, we are dedicated to supporting innovative research that has the potential to transform diagnosis and treatment options for mesothelioma. Our collaboration with Mesothelioma UK and esteemed researchers like Professor Mathew Coleman underscores our commitment to finding a cure and improving the quality of life for all those affected. We are hopeful that this discovery will pave the way for new, effective treatments and ultimately, a future free from mesothelioma.”
Liz Darlison, Chief Executive of Mesothelioma UK, added: “By identifying this new drug target, we have taken the first crucial step on the journey to finding a potential new treatment option for mesothelioma patients. Our thanks go to Mathew [Coleman] and his research team for their dedicated work, and to Erase Meso for their continued commitment to supporting research into mesothelioma treatment and care.”
Professor in Tumour Cell Biology at the Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences at the University of Birmingham, Mathew Coleman, commented: “This research suggests that MDIG is a potential drug target for the development of future mesothelioma treatment strategies. In the short term, it rationalises further studies into the role of MDIG in mesothelioma cells and the development of next-generation MDIG inhibitors. In the longer term, it supports preclinical studies that could ultimately be translated into the clinic for improved patient survival and quality of life.”
Source: Read the full article here: Latest Research Study Investigates a New Class of Cancer Target for Mesothelioma Diagnosis and Treatment
You can read some of our previous articles on this topic here:
41-Year-Old Receives Shock Pleural Mesothelioma Diagnosis
Experts Still Calling for Urgent Change in Law Regarding Asbestos-Related Lung Cancer
Scientists Unveil Remarkable Treatment for Asbestos-Associated Cancer
Mesothelioma and Asbestos-Related Cancers
Mesothelioma is a cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. Approximately 2300 die each year on average, despite the asbestos ban. The long latency period between the initial exposure and eventual revealing of symptoms means the cancer is often at an advanced stage well before sufferers can be diagnosed.
Asbestos is said to be the highest cause of work-related deaths in Great Britain, with around 5,000 people dying every year from asbestos-related diseases, which typically take decades to develop. Sadly, these types of cancers cannot be cured.
Mesothelioma UK
Mesothelioma UK is a national charity focussed on raising awareness about asbestos-related cancers. Furthermore, they assist those affected by mesothelioma and work with the community at large to provide crucial support. Established in 2004, the organisation was initially a Macmillan resource centre in Glenfield Hospital, becoming an independent Charitable Trust in 2008, and a Charitable Incorporated Organisation in 2018.
By supporting research, they aim to enhance quality of life and amplify the patient’s voice.
Erase Meso
Erase Meso is a voluntary community dedicated to supporting mesothelioma patients and caregivers. Alongside raising funds for mesothelioma research, it raises funds through various charitable projects to provide grants for scientific research aimed at finding a cure for mesothelioma.
Asbestos and Mesothelioma Solicitors
Bridge McFarland LLP has expert teams of personal injury lawyers in Lincoln, Louth, Hull, Market Rasen, Grimsby and Scarborough who can help clients across the UK with claiming compensation for those suffering from mesothelioma and other asbestos-related cancers.
With specialist accreditations from The Law Society, Legal 500, the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers and Lexcel, you can be confident that the Bridge McFarland LLP Personal Injury team will represent your case with considerable care and courtesy.
If you have recently been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, asbestosis or another asbestos-related disease, we can assist you. Please call 01482 320620 or fill out this contact form.
We also run ‘Asbestos Awareness’, a website dedicated to educating the public about the dangers of asbestos exposure and asbestos-related diseases. Read more here.
