Mesothelioma often withstands chemotherapy, making the treatment ineffective for patients.

A new study may reveal just why this happens — and if there’s a way to avoid unnecessary chemotherapy.

A report in Clinical Cancer Research details how changes to the BAP1 gene block the merits of chemotherapy for mesothelioma. Patients with more alterations to BAP1 genes had worse survival after chemotherapy.

Advancements in genetic testing and research may make use of this data for treating future cases.

 

BAP1 and Mesothelioma

BAP1 gene alteration is linked to mesothelioma. In its original makeup, the gene is essential for preventing tumors, which are clumps of rapidly dividing cells. The gene controls cell growth and cell division, and it initiates cell death at a healthy rate.

Scientists link BAP1 alterations to mesothelioma. The loss of this gene leads to increased volume of another gene, EZH2. The genetic imbalance causes faster cell duplication, slower cell death and an abundance of cell clumps.

 

Chemoresistance and BAP1

The study focused on 28 people with malignant pleural mesothelioma. Of them, 17 showed noticeable variants of the BAP1 gene.

Mutations or deletions of the BAP1 gene were associated with chemotherapy resistance. Only one-third of patients seem to respond to chemotherapy, which leaves the other two-third struggling with side effects and not gaining any benefit.

Pathology findings during the diagnostic process may reveal BAP1 protein or gene alterations. Doctors noticing this could allow for shifting treatment plans for specific cases of mesothelioma.

Sources & Author

Devin Golden

About the Writer, Devin Golden

Devin Golden is the senior content writer for Mesothelioma Guide. He produces mesothelioma-related content on various mediums, including the Mesothelioma Guide website and social media channels. Devin's objective is to translate complex information regarding mesothelioma into informative, easily absorbable content to help patients and their loved ones.

    Sources & Author

Picture of Devin Golden

About the Writer, Devin Golden

Devin Golden is a content writer for Mesothelioma Guide. He produces mesothelioma-related content on various mediums, including the Mesothelioma Guide website and social media channels. Devin's objective is to translate complex information regarding mesothelioma into informative, easily absorbable content to help patients and their loved ones.