Mesothelioma UK, the mesothelioma cancer charity, has recently shared details of a six-month research project that has been investigating a new class of cancer target for mesothelioma diagnosis and treatment.
This latest research study, supported by Mesothelioma UK and funded by Erase Meso, aims to characterise a new target for cancer treatment that could potentially benefit patients suffering from this asbestos-related cancer.
According to the article, the research team focused on an enzyme called ‘MDIG’, which acts a cellular switch using oxygen. Although MDIG is already known to be persistently active in several tumour types, it has not been previously explicitly investigated in mesothelioma cases.
The findings show that there were high levels of MDIG in laboratory-grown mesothelioma cells and that the enzyme is required for their maximal growth rate. Subsequently, these results suggest that targeting MDIG could produce promising new mesothelioma treatments.
Mathew Coleman, Professor in Tumour Cell Biology at the Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences at the University of Birmingham, 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. Huge thanks to Erase Meso and Mesothelioma UK for supporting the project!”
Paul Cook, founder of Erase Meso, 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 and his research team for their dedicated work, and to Erase Meso for their continued commitment to supporting research into mesothelioma treatment and care.”
Source: Read the full article, with further detail on the findings here:
You can read some of our previous articles on this topic here:
Mum with Pleural Mesothelioma Diagnosis Fights for Awareness
Urgent Call for Simple Change in Law Regarding Asbestos-Related Lung Cancer
Who Are Mesothelioma UK?
Mesothelioma UK is a national charity that focuses on raising awareness about this asbestos-related disease and helping those affected by mesothelioma. The organisation was established in 2004 as a Macmillan resource centre in Glenfield Hospital and became an independent Charitable Trust in 2008 and a Charitable Incorporated Organisation in 2018.
Their focus is to support people with mesothelioma to live better and live longer, while also working to prevent mesothelioma in future generations. They advocate for better treatment and care, aim to enhance quality of life, support research and amplify the patient’s voice.
About Erase Meso
Erase Meso is a voluntary community dedicated to supporting mesothelioma patients and caregivers while raising funds for mesothelioma research. They raise funds through various charitable projects to provide grants for scientific research on finding a cure or maintenance for mesothelioma.
About Mesothelioma and Asbestos-Related Cancers
Mesothelioma is a form of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos dust fibres. It is a particularly aggressive type of cancer and still causes approximately 2300 deaths each year on average, even though asbestos was banned decades ago.
The outlook for people with mesothelioma is poor, not least because by the time they are diagnosed, the disease is at an advanced stage as a result of the long latency period between exposure to asbestos and symptoms manifesting themselves.
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 and cannot be cured.
Compensation for Asbestos Exposure
We at Asbestos Awareness are dedicated to sharing vital information and highlighting the consequences of asbestos exposure. After being exposed to asbestos, a person can be at considerable risk of contracting an asbestos-related disease, such as mesothelioma or lung cancer. If you have been informed that you are suffering from such a disease, it is crucial to seek out the necessary legal advice to ensure you receive the compensation you are rightfully owed.
Our site is owned and managed by Bridge McFarland, a UK-based law firm with a leading personal injury department dedicated to supporting clients in claiming compensation owed as a result of an asbestos-related disease diagnosis.
To speak to our experienced personal injury solicitors today, please call 0800 987 8800 or email enquiries@bmcf.co.uk.
