New BAP1 Finding Could Be Key to Regulating Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a rare cancer most often caused by exposure to asbestos fibers. Our researchers at the University of Hawaii Cancer Center have discovered how asbestos causes mesothelioma, which we linked mainly to the protein HMGB1.  After several years of studying a unique mesothelioma epidemic in Cappadocia, Turkey, we noted that in certain families, up to 50% of family members developed mesothelioma. We demonstrated that susceptibility to mesothelioma was transmitted genetically from one generation to the next.  Following this discovery, several U.S. families with multiple mesothelioma cases contacted us and asked for help. Studying these families, we discovered their mesothelioma was caused by inherited germline mutations of a gene called BAP1, transmitted from one generation to the next. The chance of inheriting the mutation is 50%, and those who inherit the mutation are affected by this cancer.  Identifying mesotheliomas developing in carriers of germline mutations of BAP1 and possibly of other genes is essential. These patients have a significantly improved median survival of six to seven years from diagnosis because they respond well to therapy. Moreover, some patients survive 10 to 20 years and eventually die of other causes. Discovering the Link Between BAP1 and Mesothelioma Asbestos in the pleura or peritoneum encounters mesothelial cells and releases the HMGB1 protein outside the cell. HMGB1 attracts inflammatory cells and starts chronic ...
Source: Asbestos and Mesothelioma News - Category: Environmental Health Authors: Tags: Clinical Trials/Research/Emerging Treatments Mesothelioma Source Type: news