A six-month research project, supported by national charities, Mesothelioma UK and Erase Meso, has advanced new research into the diagnosis and treatment of the asbestos-related cancer, mesothelioma.
Funded by Erase Meso, the project aimed to characterise a new target for cancer treatment, with potential to benefit patients suffering from this asbestos related cancer.
The research team focused on an enzyme known as ‘MDIG’, which acts as a cellular switch using oxygen. While MDIG is known to be persistently active in several tumour types, its role in mesothelioma had not been previously explored. Given MDIG’s influence on protein synthesis, which is a critical process for mesothelioma survival, and its increased levels due to exposure to silica and mineral dusts, researchers hypothesised that MDIG might significantly contribute to mesothelioma development.
The team discovered high levels of MDIG and its cellular targets in laboratory-grown mesothelioma cells. Furthermore, they found that the enzyme is required for the maximal growth rate of these cells. These findings suggest that MDIG could be a promising new drug target for mesothelioma treatment. The research team is now well-positioned to target MDIG through their collaborations with chemists at the University of Oxford and Rome.
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: “I am immensely proud of the strides we are making in the fight against mesothelioma. This groundbreaking research on MDIG represents a beacon of hope for patients and their families who have been affected by this devastating disease.
“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.”
