Clapper, Patti, Schweizer and Mason

Researchers examining the effect mesothelioma has on the expression of certain proteins recently discovered that the presence or absence of some of these compounds can be used to effectively predict the potential longevity of malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) patients.  The study specifically examined the activation of the PTEN–PI3K pathway and associated downstream proteins.  Essentially they were looking at certain proteins which enable “communication” between cells. 

The study examined 30 patients suffering from malignant pleural mesothelioma.  They were compared using various criteria including: sex, age, histology, white blood count, etc.  Biopsies of their respective mesothelioma tumors were also taken and used during chemical analysis.

The analysis of the data and samples collected confirmed that overexpression of several proteins was a very common occurrence with malignant pleural mesothelioma patients.  The proteins which were overexpressed with the highest regularity include:

• PTEN – 90% of patients
• pMAPK – 100% of patients
• mTOR – 93.3% of patients
• pAKT – 80% of patients
• 4E-BP1 – 100% of patients
• p4E-BP1 – 43.3% of patients
• eIF-4E – 96.7% of patients
• peIF-4E – 100% of patients
• p-S6 –63.3% of patients
• FOXO3a- 100% of patients

Proteins and Impact on Prognosis

While the purpose of the study was to examine the relationship between MPM and all of these protein markers in order to identify potential new avenues of mesothelioma treatment, diagnosis, or further research, the scientists discovered that the overexpression of certain proteins in their list of “usual suspects” correlated directly with the patient’s prognosis. 

Specifically, low concentrations of the pS6 protein equated with longer periods of progression free survival.  In fact, the average rate of progression free survival was increased by 2.3 months, from just 5.6 months to almost 8 months.  In addition, the research team noticed that lower rates of overexpression of this certain gene correlated with overall longevity as well.  Patients with lower expressions of this protein marker lived on average of 23.4 compared to 5.6 months for patients with high levels of overexpression of this marker.

Researchers also discovered that patients who not only had lower rates of overexpression of this protein and two additional proteins (p4E-BP1 and FOXO3a) enjoyed an even more favorable prognosis with longevity on average of 34.6 months. 

What This Means For Patients

While the results of this single study have yet to be verified, the data appear clear and the methodology is sound.  So what does this mean for current patients diagnosed with this asbestos cancer?

It means that mesothelioma doctors may soon have a test which will allow them to better predict how long a patient has to live and may even predict the quality of life that patient may expect during their remaining time.

That allows doctors and patients to better plot out a course of treatment for their disease and rule out certain undesirable options.

Not only that, it gives patients a more definite timeline for dealing with their disease.  One of the most difficult things a mesothelioma patient has to do is prepare for the inevitable.  Though research has progressed in leaps and bounds, mesothelioma is still fatal and it is still incurable.  By having a rough timeframe, patients can get their affairs in order and face their disease head-on, on their terms.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, do not hesitate to call today at 1-800-440-4262  to speak with one of our expert mesothelioma attorneys.  A no cost evaluation can help you explore your legal options that can cover expensive mesothelioma treatment costs.