This year has seen significant progress in mesothelioma research, with several promising developments reported over the past six months. Researchers have discovered potential new treatments for inoperable pleural mesothelioma, made advances in immunotherapy, and found new ways to monitor patient responses to treatments.
RSO-021 antibiotic has anti-cancer properties
One noteworthy discovery involves RSO-021, a naturally occurring antibiotic known as thiostrepton. Initially used by veterinarians to treat infections in livestock, early testing shows that RSO-021 also likely combats mesothelioma tumors.
It blocks a crucial enzyme in mesothelioma cells, causing the cancer cells to die while sparing healthy cells. In lab studies, mesothelioma cells from actual patients died when treated with RSO-021. Encouraged by these results, researchers have initiated a clinical trial to test RSO-021 in patients with inoperable pleural mesothelioma, injecting the drug directly into the pleural space.
This trial is recruiting patients and is expected to conclude by April 2025. If successful, RSO-021 could become a gentler yet effective alternative to existing treatments.
UV1 combined with Opdivo and Yervoy fast-tracked
Another significant development is the U.S. Food and Drug Administration granting Fast Track designation to the UV1 cancer vaccine in combination with Opdivo (nivolumab) and Yervoy (ipilimumab). This combination therapy, aimed at treating inoperable pleural mesothelioma, will undergo an expedited review process, potentially leading to faster FDA approval.
Opdivo and Yervoy are checkpoint inhibitor drugs, which help people’s immune system recognize and kill cancer cells. Early clinical trials showed that patients receiving UV1 along with Opdivo and Yervoy had a 27% less risk of death compared to those receiving only the checkpoint inhibitors. UV1 could become an essential new treatment option if these promising results continue.
Keytruda successfully treated mesothelioma
In a notable case study, a 59-year-old man with peritoneal mesothelioma experienced significant improvement after being treated with Keytruda® (pembrolizumab), another checkpoint inhibitor. Initially treated with standard chemotherapy, his tumors continued to grow until doctors administered Keytruda. Over time, his tumors shrank and eventually disappeared, putting him in complete remission and allowing him to enjoy a high quality of life.
While this result is encouraging, it involves a single patient, and further research is needed to determine if others would respond similarly.
Breath testing as a potential tool for predicting prognosis
Researchers are also exploring the potential of breath testing to predict mesothelioma prognosis. One group is developing a non-invasive breath test for early diagnosis, which has generated excitement in the mesothelioma community.
Another group designed a breath test to predict treatment response, achieving an 89% accuracy rate. More studies are needed to confirm these findings, but if successful, breath testing could significantly improve mesothelioma therapy.
Good news for mesothelioma patients
While these advances are still in the early stages and may not immediately impact many patients, they offer hope for future improvements in mesothelioma treatment and prognosis.
While this is good news, treatment costs and related expenses are extensive. Folks exposed to asbestos at work or elsewhere may be able to take legal action against a negligent party for their inaction. This can help with the burden of fighting this deadly disease.