Alterations in DNA of patients exposed to asbestos can lead to gene expression, which explains the development of malignant pleural mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer. Scientists were able to analyze public RNA-seq data through a comprehensive bioinformatics pipeline. This led to researchers being able to develop a view of the molecular mechanisms involved in asbestos-induced carcinogenesis. The findings showcase both novel and known genes and pathways, showcasing valuable insights into what happens in asbestos-exposed patients. The work being done contributes to ongoing efforts to define reliable diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers and lays the groundwork for future investigations and potential clinical applications for treatments for pleural mesothelioma.
The study is investigating gene expression in malignant pleural mesothelioma associated with documented asbestos exposure. The goal is to find specific transcriptomic biomarkers that could support advances in precision medicine. The study was conducted within the Med Biotech Hub and Competence Center at the University of Siena, in collaboration with the SHRO and the Sbarro Institute for Molecular Medicine and Cancer Research at Temple University. Funding was provided by the Italian National Institute for Insurance Against Accidents at Work through the BiC-INAIL 2022 program.
The research team used publicly available RNA sequencing datasets. The team used a comprehensive bioinformatics pipeline to perform differential gene expression and functional enrichment analyses. The results included a distinct set of differentially expressed genes in malignant pleural mesothelioma patients with documented asbestos exposure. The genes in question are involved with key biological processes including ion homeostasis, oxidative stress response, and cellular component disorganization-hallmarks of asbestos-induced cellular damage that may play a role in tumor initiation and progression.
Results from this study shed new light on the molecular mechanisms of malignant pleural mesothelioma and offer a foundation for future research into predictive and prognostic biomarkers. The study pinpoints specific transcriptomic changes and supports the development of improved diagnostic tools and potential therapeutic targets for mesothelioma. The research being done here means we are one step closer to identifying who is more likely to develop malignant pleural mesothelioma. This is helping to develop potential new treatments for the disease. The global incidence of malignant mesothelioma continues to rise due to a long latency period after asbestos exposure. This study is a critical step toward more personalized and effective management strategies for patients.
