Gene therapy is one of several promising experimental mesothelioma treatment options being explored by doctors. Most commonly available in clinical trials, gene therapy involves correcting defective traits among genes through the use of a genetically altered virus. When this virus is introduced to the patient's body, it enters target cells and "corrects" the gene defect by programming the cells to produce normal, healthy proteins.
Mesothelioma Gene Therapy
Gene therapy was not originally conceived of as a mesothelioma treatment. Rather, it was intended to provide treatment options for individuals with genetic disorders (such as hemophilia and muscular dystrophy). However, the past decade has expanded the potential for gene therapy to include asbestos cancer treatment.
As with other cancers, the goal of therapy through gene manipulation is to alter cancer cells so that they are more susceptible to chemotherapy drugs.
Specific Gene Therapy Options
There are a number of gene therapies currently in clinical trials for mesothelioma patients. One of the most promising is something called suicide gene therapy. Through this type of mesothelioma therapy, an altered virus is introduced that causes tumor cells to become vulnerable to a drug that is traditionally non-toxic. Once the virus has been introduced, patients are given this drug, resulting in the death of cancer cells while leaving healthy cells unharmed.
In one clinical trial with suicide gene therapy, doctors reported a number of patients who achieved prolonged survivorship. Of the 34 participants, four showed signs of advanced tumor regression. Additionally, two patients achieved full tumor regression and went into remission for over seven years.
Another potential gene therapy option for mesothelioma patients involves boosting the body's immune system. This is done by introducing genetically altered viruses that bolster cytokines in target cells. Cytokines help the body's ability to attack cancer cells.
Side Effects
Gene therapy requires mesothelioma doctors to expose the patient to a genetically altered virus. This may cause the individual to experience common virus-related symptoms, such as fever, nausea and chills. Additionally, it should be noted that the FDA has not yet approved gene therapy. As such, its long-term effects on the body are still not known. Still, for some patients, the potential rewards of gene therapy may outweigh the potential risks.
Gene therapy, along with photodynamic therapy and immunotherapy, is providing promising new treatment options to mesothelioma patients.
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