Australian researchers believe that suppressing the body’s natural defenses may actually help in the fight against mesothelioma.
In what seems like a contradiction, scientists are turning off the immune system’s regulatory T-cells, which normally attack mesothelioma and other tumors. The latest research indicates that controlling the T-cells, or Treg cells, in some cases could be more effective against cancer. The body releases large quantities of T-cells when it senses a growing tumor.
After removing the Treg cells from mesothelioma tumors, the scientists report that the tumors grow at a slower rate. Removing the cells can also help increase the effectiveness of chemotherapy, the report said.
The process is a delicate balance, however.
Timing and the dosage of the Treg manipulators must be administered at specific intervals to get the best effect.
Treatment of using the body’s natural defenses to battle cancer is called immunotherapy. Other types of immunotherapy that scientists are studying include an injection of the common cold virus and measles. Many mesothelioma patients are turning to these types of innovative trials to help improve their lives and stabilize their condition, for which there is no cure.
The body’s anti-tumor responses and increased survival rates of those seeking immunotherapy have encouraged both patients and scientists.
Mesothelioma is a rare cancer found in the lining of the chest and lung, the abdomen and around the heart. It is caused by exposure to asbestos. Between 2,000 and 3,000 people are diagnosed with the deadly disease every year in the United States. Even more are misdiagnosed or never diagnosed because of doctor error or inadequate healthcare.
Symptoms of mesothelioma include painful breathing, shortness of breath or unexplained weight loss. It’s important to know that not all patients will experience the same symptoms. The symptoms exhibited can depend on the stage and type of cancer.
Asbestos is frequently used in cement, brake lining and other materials because of its superior insulating qualities. However, asbestos is a worldwide killer. There is no safe level of asbestos exposure. Although it is banned in more than 40 countries, it is still used in the United States and developing countries including India.
The World Health Organization estimates that more than 100,000 people die each year from complications from asbestos exposure.