Japanese Study Focuses on Role of RNA in Mesothelioma Chemotherapy Response, According to Surviving Mesothelioma
Raleigh, NC (PRWEB) February 12, 2016 -- Doctors in Japan have just published new research on a method they say can boost mesothelioma survival by making chemotherapy more effective. Surviving Mesothelioma now has the full story on its website. Click here to read it now.
Researchers at Tokushima University developed a molecule to “reprogram” the RNA of mesothelioma cells, making them more sensitive to the effects of chemotherapy.
“Our findings emphasize the pivotal relevance of RNAi as an effective tool for increasing the therapeutic efficacy of pemetrexed, a cornerstone in the treatment regimens of malignant pleural mesothelioma,” writes lead author Amr S. Abu Lila with the University’s Institute of Biosciences.
The study, published in the International Journal of Oncology, focuses on the drug pemetrexed (brand name Alimta) which remains the only drug specifically approved for the treatment of malignant pleural mesothelioma.
“Because most mesothelioma patients will get Alimta during the course of their treatment, we are constantly watching for evidence that this regimen can be improved,” says Alex Strauss, Managing Editor of Surviving Mesothelioma. “This study is an encouraging step in that direction.”
To read the results of the study and learn more about RNA manipulation in mesothelioma treatment, see RNA Interference Enhances Mesothelioma Survival in Mice now available on the Surviving Mesothelioma website.
Abu Lia, AS, et al, Downregulation of thymidylate synthase by RNAi molecules enhances the antitumor effect of pemetrexed in an orthotopic malignant mesothelioma xenograft mouse model”, February 1, 2016, International Journal of Oncology, Epub ahead of print, https://www.readbyqxmd.com/read/26847426
For nearly ten years, Surviving Mesothelioma has brought readers the most important and ground-breaking news on the causes, diagnosis and treatment of mesothelioma. All Surviving Mesothelioma news is gathered and reported directly from the peer-reviewed medical literature. Written for patients and their loved ones, Surviving Mesothelioma news helps families make more informed decisions.
Michael Ellis, Cancer Monthy, http://www.survivingmesothelioma.com, +1 (919) 570-8595, [email protected]
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