Immunotherapy and Tumor Treating Fields Offer Breakthrough in Mesothelioma Treatment
Promising new therapies offer hope for mesothelioma patients with innovative treatment methods.
Recent advances in mesothelioma treatment offer hope and promise for patients battling this aggressive form of cancer. Led by dedicated researchers and clinicians, these breakthroughs pave the way for improved survival rates and enhanced quality of life.
CONFIRM 1 and Mesothelioma
One significant milestone is the CONFIRM 1 trial, spearheaded by Professor Dean Fennell at the University of Leicester and Professor Gareth Griffiths at the CRUK Southampton Clinical Trials Unit. This groundbreaking trial involved 332 patients with mesothelioma in the lung or abdomen ara. The findings revealed a 33% reduction in the risk of disease progression and a 31% reduction in the risk of mortality among patients treated with the immunotherapy drug nivolumab.
Immunotherapy and Mesothelioma
Immunotherapy has always been regarded as a standard treatment option for both pleural and peritoneal mesothelioma. In 2020, the FDA approved a combination of immunotherapy drugs, Opdivo® (nivolumab) and Yervoy® (ipilimumab), for the treatment of pleural mesothelioma. Clinical trials have demonstrated significantly improved survival rates among patients receiving this combination.
Tumor Treating Fields and and Mesothelioma
Another innovative approach is Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields), introduced in 2018 as a novel cancer treatment. TTFields therapy utilizes gentle electric fields to disrupt cancer cell growth. The results of a clinical trial revealed a median overall survival of 18.2 months for patients receiving TTFields therapy, extending survival by approximately 6 months compared to chemotherapy alone.
These breakthroughs represent significant progress in the management of mesothelioma, offering new avenues for treatment and hope for patients and their families.
As research continues and new therapies emerge, the outlook for mesothelioma patients continues to improve, highlighting the importance of ongoing advancements in the fight against this devastating disease.
These advancements are only the tip of the iceberg, though. As more and more research is dedicated to the disease, experts remain cautiously optimistic about improving prognoses. In this article, we will take a closer look at how far more recent advances have gone – and what this means for the future.
Recent Development of a Groundbreaking Mesothelioma Treatments
In a groundbreaking development, scientists have introduced a new drug aimed at treating mesothelioma, a challenging cancer often associated with asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma, primarily affecting the lungs and caused by asbestos exposure, is known for its aggressive nature and poor survival rates globally.
The recent breakthrough, hailed as “truly wonderful” by experts, offers renewed hope to patients and their families. Led by Queen Mary University of London, an international trial conducted across five countries showcased promising results for the new therapy, published in the journal JAMA Oncology.
Broad participation in important mesothelioma study
The trial, overseen by Professor Peter Szlosarek at Queen Mary, involved the participation of patients from the U.K., U.S., Australia, Italy, and Taiwan. The innovative drug, ADI-PEG20 (pegargiminase), marked the first successful combination with chemotherapy in two decades.
One of the trial’s participants, an 80-year-old exposed to asbestos in a factory during the 1970s, shared his remarkable experience. Initially given a prognosis of four months to live, he credits the trial for extending his life by five years thus far, allowing him to cherish precious moments with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Mesothelioma, characterized by one of the lowest survival rates among cancers, presented a significant challenge until the introduction of ADI-PEG20. The drug, administered alongside chemotherapy, showcased notable improvements in survival rates and progression-free survival.
Key Findings from the ATOMIC-meso Trial
The ATOMIC-meso trial, conducted between 2017 and 2021 across 43 centers, involved 249 patients with pleural mesothelioma, with an average age of 70. Those receiving pegargiminase-chemotherapy exhibited an average survival of 9.3 months, compared to 7.7 months for those on placebo-chemotherapy.
Furthermore, the study highlighted a significant increase in median overall survival and quadrupling of survival rates at 36 months among patients receiving pegargiminase-chemotherapy. The treatment was well-tolerated with no reported safety concerns, marking a significant milestone in mesothelioma management.
The breakthrough stems from two decades of dedicated research by Professor Szlosarek, leveraging insights into mesothelioma cell biology to develop ADI-PEG20. The drug operates by depleting arginine levels, hindering the growth of tumor cells reliant on this amino acid.
Dr. Tayyaba Jiwani of Cancer Research U.K. emphasized the impact of discovery research in uncovering vulnerabilities in mesothelioma biology, enabling targeted treatments like ADI-PEG20. Liz Darlison, chief executive of Mesothelioma UK, lauded the ATOMIC trial for providing a much-needed treatment option and instilling hope within the mesothelioma community.
The introduction of ADI-PEG20 marks a significant milestone in mesothelioma treatment in this day and age.
What Exactly is ADI-PEG20?
ADI-PEG20 stands out as a promising experimental drug designed to combat various cancers, including sarcomas, brain tumors, and other cancer types reliant on arginine for growth. Unlike traditional chemotherapy, ADI-PEG20 operates by disrupting the cancer’s primary source of sustenance, thereby impeding its ability to thrive.
Specifically tailored for mesothelioma treatment, ADI-PEG20 has demonstrated remarkable efficacy. Mesothelioma cells exhibit a deficiency in the ASS1 protein, which is crucial for the synthesis of arginine within cells.
Consequently, these cancer cells heavily rely on external sources of arginine obtained from the bloodstream to sustain their growth and proliferation. Ass mentioned above, studies have shown that the integration of ADI-PEG20 alongside conventional chemotherapy has yielded promising outcomes.
Patients diagnosed with mesothelioma experienced a noteworthy extension in average survival rates by 1.6 months. Moreover, the three-year survival rate quadrupled when compared to conventional treatment methods alone.
This represents a monumental advancement, considering the notoriously low five-year survival rates associated with malignant Mesothelioma, typically ranging between 5% to 10%.
The success witnessed in the treatment of Mesothelioma showcases the potential applicability of ADI-PEG20 in combating a spectrum of other malignancies. Ongoing investigations are exploring the viability of ADI-PEG20 in treating:
· Sarcomas,
· Glioblastoma multiforme (a form of brain tumor),
· Mesothelioma, and
· Other cancers reliant on arginine for sustenance.
These endeavors hold promise in expanding the arsenal of therapeutic options available to cancer patients, offering renewed hope in the fight against this formidable disease.
Administering ADI-PEG20
ADI-PEG20 is delivered to patients through intramuscular injection. In clinical trials, participants typically received ADI-PEG20 initially on day -3, followed by weekly administrations. These injections were administered alongside a combination regimen consisting of azacitidine and oral venetoclax.
The primary objective of these trials was to establish the recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D) of ADI-PEG20 when administered weekly in conjunction with venetoclax and azacitidine. This dosing schedule aims to optimize the therapeutic benefits of ADI-PEG20 while minimizing potential adverse effects.
Side Effects of ADI-PEG20
As with any medication, ADI-PEG20 may elicit certain side effects in individuals undergoing treatment. These side effects, while not experienced by all patients, are important to be aware of. Below are some common side effects associated with ADI-PEG20:
Tiredness: Patients may experience feelings of fatigue or exhaustion, which can impact their energy levels and daily activities.
High Temperature (Fever): Some individuals may develop a fever, characterized by an elevated body temperature, as a result of ADI-PEG20 treatment.
Pain and Redness at the Injection Site: Injection site reactions, such as pain and redness, may occur following the administration of ADI-PEG20.
Skin Rash and Itching: Patients may experience skin-related issues, including rashes and itching, which can cause discomfort and irritation.
Feeling and Being Sick: Nausea and vomiting are potential side effects associated with ADI-PEG20 treatment, although not everyone will experience these symptoms.
Diarrhea: Some individuals may develop diarrhea, characterized by loose or watery stools, as a result of ADI-PEG20 treatment.
Decreased Appetite: Patients may notice a decrease in appetite or changes in their eating habits while undergoing treatment with ADI-PEG20.
Drop in Blood Cells: ADI-PEG20 may cause a decrease in certain blood cell counts, which can increase the risk of infection. It is important for patients to monitor for signs of infection and seek medical attention if necessary.
Healthcare professionals can offer better guidance on managing side effects and adjusting treatment plans if necessary. This ensures the best possible outcome for patients undergoing therapy with ADI-PEG20.
Impact of Arginine on Cancer Cells
Arginine, a semi-essential amino acid, plays a vital role in numerous cellular functions, including protein synthesis and nitrogen waste disposal. Additionally, it has been identified as a key regulator of immune cell activity in response to cancer and other immunological stimuli.
In cancer biology, arginine assumes a critical role as an essential nutrient for cancer cells. Certain types of cancer cells exhibit a dependence on arginine for their growth and proliferation, classifying them as either arginine auxotrophic or partially auxotrophic.
This dependency arises due to the inadequacy of de novo arginine synthesis within these cells to meet their heightened nutritional demands, compelling them to rely on external sources of arginine. Notably, research indicates that the depletion of arginine can profoundly impact cancer cell behavior, particularly in terms of migration.
Cancer cell migration is a fundamental process involved in various physiological phenomena such as
· Wound healing,
· Embryonic development, and
· Immune responses.
However, cancer cells exploit this mechanism to facilitate metastasis, the spread of cancer to distant organs.
Therefore, strategies aimed at depriving cancer cells of arginine have emerged as promising therapeutic approaches in cancer treatment. Consequently, this intervention holds the potential to enhance the susceptibility of tumors to the body’s inherent immune defenses, thereby offering a novel avenue for combating cancer progression.
Timeframe for ADI-PEG20 Effectiveness
The effectiveness of ADI-PEG20 treatment varies depending on the individual’s response and the specifics of the clinical trial or treatment plan. In some studies, patients continued ADI-PEG20 treatment for up to one year.
For instance, in a phase 1 trial involving patients with adverse-risk Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), ADI-PEG20 was administered weekly via intramuscular injection alongside azacitidine and oral venetoclax.
Patients were allowed to undergo treatment for a maximum of 24 cycles, equivalent to approximately 96 weeks. These results highlight the potential long-term benefits of ADI-PEG20 treatment in improving patient outcomes and prolonging survival.
The Future of Mesothelioma Treatment
The introduction of ADI-PEG20 marks a significant milestone in the ongoing battle against mesothelioma, offering newfound hope to patients and their loved ones. As we reflect on the remarkable progress made in mesothelioma treatment, it becomes evident that the journey towards a cure is far from over.
The success of ADI-PEG20 underscores the potential for targeted therapies to revolutionize cancer treatment, providing personalized solutions tailored to the unique biology of each patient’s disease.
With ongoing research and clinical trials, further refinements and advancements in mesothelioma therapy are likely to be made, with the goal of improving outcomes and enhancing quality of life for those affected.
While ADI-PEG20 shows promise in extending survival and slowing disease progression, it is but one piece of the puzzle in mesothelioma care. As scientists and clinicians continue to research mesothelioma biology, new avenues for treatment are being explored, offering renewed optimism for the future.
In addition to medical advancements, it’s crucial to acknowledge the importance of legal support for mesothelioma patients and their families. Legal assistance can help individuals with mesothelioma claims, seeking rightful compensation for asbestos exposure and related damages.
While the focus remains on medical breakthroughs, legal support serves as a vital resource in ensuring that those affected by mesothelioma receive the justice and support they deserve. As we stand on the cusp of a new era in mesothelioma treatment, it is imperative that we remain committed to collaboration, innovation, and advocacy.