Stem cells have opened up many new possibilities in medical research. Mesothelioma patients may be the latest to benefit from these miracle cells. A research team at Stanford University had promising results with a new pluripotent stem cell vaccine which has the potential to help the body attack tumors.
Pluripotent stem cells, or iPS cells, are immature cells that have not yet been programmed to form a type of tissue. Though they are harvested from the blood and skin of patients, they are treated with genes that help them revert to a less developed state. Their plasticity makes them extremely useful in treating a wide range of conditions, which may now include mesothelioma and other forms of cancer.
Mice with Mesothelioma Showed Strong Immune Response
The team at Stanford experimented on mice that had been infected with breast cancer, mesothelioma, or melanoma. They injected the mice with different combinations of vaccines once a week for four weeks and observed as the vaccines triggered an immune response, shrinking tumors and preventing new ones from growing. Mice that received a combination of iPS cells and an immune-stimulating agent showed impressive results, with seven out of 10 experiencing a reduction in their tumor size.
In particular, the mice infected with mesothelioma showed a robust immune response, with a significant increase in tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes. This is great news for mesothelioma patients, who often have limited treatment options. Malignant mesothelioma is one of the most treatment resistant of any form of cancer, so novel solutions like a stem cell vaccine could mean the difference between survival and short life expectancy for patients.
Pluripotent Stem Cells Ideal for Fighting Cancer
While this therapy is still in its early clinical stages, researchers are optimistic. Not only did the vaccine show promising results, but it is also very straightforward in its approach. iPS cells are similar to cancer cells and have the power to trigger a system-wide immune response to target and eliminate cancerous cells. The patient’s own tissue can be transformed into a cancer-fighting agent and be reintroduced to the body to combat the disease.
Mesothelioma, which infects the lining of the lungs, heart, and chest cavity, is relatively rare, affecting approximately 3,000 Americans per year. It is also extremely fatal; most patients who are diagnosed with mesothelioma have a survival window of less than 18 months. Mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos, which can lay dormant in the body for decades before symptoms begin to appear.
Philadelphia Mesothelioma Lawyers at Shein Law Fight for Asbestos Exposure Victims
If you or a loved one is suffering from mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease, call the Philadelphia mesothelioma lawyers at Shein Law. Our knowledgeable, experienced lawyers will thoroughly review the facts of your case to determine who is at fault for your asbestos exposure and hold them accountable. We are committed to obtaining the compensation you deserve for your suffering. With offices conveniently located in Philadelphia and Pennsauken, New Jersey, we help asbestos exposure victims and their families throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Call us today at 877-743-4652 or contact us online to discuss your case.