Netherlands Cancer Institute Tests New Mesothelioma Therapy

Research for a new type of mesothelioma treatment is underway at the Netherlands Cancer Institute. Scientists are exploring a novel combination of existing medications for patients with BAP1 genetic mutations. 

More than half of all mesothelioma patients show alterations in the BAP1 tumor-suppressor gene. An altered BAP1 gene allows for vulnerabilities that make specific treatments more effective. The combination treatment led to about a four-week increase in median survival.

Researchers have previously only explored the combination of zoledronic acid and tazemetostat in single cells and animal models. This latest research shows promising results in reducing the growth of cancer cells in mice with mesothelioma. 

Asbestos exposure is the primary cause of mesothelioma. Treatment options, such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy, are limited in how long they can extend survival. Targeting gene mutations with a particular combination of drugs could prove more effective. 

“If these drugs also prove to work well in clinical trials, we can offer patients a new and hopefully better treatment option,” said Jitendra Badhai, one of the study authors. 

Drug Combination Improves Survival in Mice

Study investigators treated mice with mesothelioma to determine the effectiveness of the new drug combination. The mice received either tazemetostat, zoledronic acid or a combination of both. The research team then monitored tumor volume over time. 

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Source: Asbestos and Mesothelioma News - February 15, 2023 Category: Environmental Health Authors: Amy Edel Tags: Clinical Trials/Research/Emerging Treatments Mesothelioma Source Type: news