In early November, Mayo Clinic researchers announced an innovative approach that may significantly improve the detection of mesothelioma. This new blood testing method relies on testing complex patterns in the DNA of cancer cells, called chromosomal rearrangements. The test looks for complex deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) patterns common in mesothelioma cells. This new test could increase the chances of spotting mesothelioma DNA cells in the blood, allowing for earlier diagnoses. This testing method could also lead to new targeted therapy options.
Malignant mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that occurs in the lining covering most internal organs. This illness is primarily caused by asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that is not widely used today but was quite popular in the 20th century. While mesothelioma is no longer widely used, about 3,000 people in the United States are still diagnosed with the illness annually. The reality is that even though asbestos is no longer widely used, it can be found all around us. Asbestos fibers can be found in many older buildings, including homes, workplaces, and schools. These fibers are mostly found in vinyl tiles, roofing materials, and paint. When asbestos is disturbed, tiny fibers are released into the air. Inhaling these fibers can lead to inflammation and scarring and, eventually, the development of mesothelioma. It often takes decades for mesothelioma to develop or for symptoms to appear after initial exposure.
It is challenging to detect mesothelioma using traditional blood tests. This is because this disease tends to have fewer single-point genetic mutations. A single-point genetic mutation is when there is a slight change in the DNA sequence. This can be compared to changing one letter in a word. Many cancers often rely on detecting such mutations, making detecting mesothelioma harder since it has fewer of these mutations. The presence of chromosomal rearrangements (where DNA sections are shuffled around) offers a new way of identifying the illness. Chromosomal rearrangements can be compared to rearranging the order of words in a sentence.
The team of researchers explained that whole genome sequencing was used to identify key chromosomal changes in the DNA of cancer cells. Genome sequencing allows a person to read the DNA in a living thing to understand its genetic instructions. Whole genome sequencing finds mutations or changes in an individual's DNA that can lead to uncontrollable cell growth. After locating the changes in the cancer cell DNA, the researchers created small DNA pieces (primers) that could match and attach to the changes. Then, they searched for those same changes in blood. This process allowed the researchers to develop personalized tests that can detect DNA in a patient's blood.
This new testing approach gives hope to the public that better detection and treatment for mesothelioma are on the horizon. By detecting mesothelioma earlier and more accurately, patients may benefit from timely, personalized treatment, improving treatment outcomes and survival rates. Currently, the prognosis of mesothelioma is poor. Patients usually survive 12 to 21 months with treatment. This new approach gives hope that these statistics will change and more lives will be saved through earlier and more effective interventions.
Arizona Mesothelioma Lawyers
If you or a loved one were diagnosed with mesothelioma, contact our office to speak to one of our experienced Arizona mesothelioma attorneys about your situation. Our office can help investigate your case and determine if compensation can be sought from negligent parties to help you and your family live a more comfortable life.
