Term: Fibulin-3
Definition: Fibulin-3 is a glycoprotein found in the extracellular matrix that plays a role in tissue development and repair. It has gained attention as a potential biomarker for diagnosing and monitoring certain cancers, including mesothelioma.
Phonetic Pronunciation: (FYE-byoo-lin three)
Etymological Origin: The term "fibulin" is derived from the Latin word fibula, meaning "clasp" or "fastener," reflecting its role in binding components of the extracellular matrix. The "3" denotes its classification as the third member of the fibulin protein family.
Significance in Asbestos Context: Fibulin-3 is significant in the field of asbestos because it has been identified as a promising biomarker for malignant mesothelioma, a cancer strongly associated with asbestos exposure. Elevated levels of fibulin-3 in blood or pleural effusions have been linked to the presence of mesothelioma, making it a valuable tool for early diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring of the disease. Its specificity for mesothelioma compared to other cancers or benign conditions has made it a focus of research in asbestos-related health impacts and litigation.
Synonyms or Related Terms: EFEMP1 (epidermal growth factor-containing fibulin-like extracellular matrix protein 1), mesothelioma biomarker.
Example Sentence: "Recent studies have shown that fibulin-3 levels in pleural effusions can help distinguish malignant mesothelioma from other pleural diseases, providing a critical diagnostic tool for asbestos-exposed individuals."
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