More Research on Mesothelioma

Chemrisk analysts looked at data on asbestos exposure, particularly among insulators, pipefitters, boilermakers, masons, welders, sheet-metal workers, millwrights, electricians, abatement workers, and others. Insulators appeared to be the most heavily exposed workers, with average workplace air concentrations ranging from 2 to 10 fibers per cubic centimeter during the 60s and early 70s. After workplace practices improved in the 70s, exposure levels declined in the US, except perhaps during ripout activities or the spraying of asbestos in enclosed spaces or onboard ships.

A in 2007 found the microtubule inhibitor vinflunine had encouraging results in trial treatment of mesothelioma patients. An earlier study in France found that vinflunine has angiogenic properties and can decrease the motility of endothelial cells. Scientists are already interested in vinflunine for treatment of bladder and other forms of cancer. Vinflunine is a derivative of vinorelbine, modified by synthetic chemistry. Vinorelbine has been used for years for treatment of breast cancer and non-small cell lung cancer. Cancer Research UK concluded that vinflunine is worth further investigating for mesothelioma.

An Italian study looked at the methods to assess tumors in mesothelioma. Computed tomography is used for other cancers, but the geometry of the torso and mesothelioma tumor makes CT difficult to use. The authors conclude PET is a more effective assessment.

Researchers at the Cancer Research Center of Hawaii published a paper in which they discuss the recent progress in the understanding of the pathogenesis of mesothelioma and the process of mineral fiber carcinogenesis. In a related area, doctors at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center looked at prognostic indicators for malignant mesothelioma and found that in addition to tumor histology and pathologic stage, asbestos exposure, smoking, and gender also had a correlation with survival.

Biological fate of asbestos in the body.

Scientists at Brigham and Women's Hopsital used RNA sequencing - a new technology - to determine the genetic sequences of expressed genes in mesothelioma tumors.

National mesothelioma virtual bank

Mesothelioma Research - Genetically profiling tumors as a way to select chemotherapy

A study found that mesothelioma incidence among French men started to level off in 2000 while it continues to increase among French women. The authors concede this difference may be due to underdiagnosis in women in the past. The decreasing rate is attributed to lower amphibole consumption and workplace safety regulations starting in the 1970s.

Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (HER) Signaling and Cancer Therapy

Systemic theory of cancer

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