Key protein may play a role in mesothelioma origin, study suggests

The research was published today in the journal Nature Communications

"Together with our basic research and clinical collaborators, we found that in many mesothelioma tumors, the Hand2 protein is already turned on, which may alter tumor cells," said Dr.

Mesothelioma is a malignant tumor that occurs in a thin layer of tissue called the mesothelium, which covers most internal organs

Mosiman said the Hand2 protein binds to genes at the beginning of life and controls them during cell development

Mosimann and his team used zebrafish to study how different types of cells are formed, because the translucent nature of zebrafish allows them to observe the entire process of rapid cell development

The team's work now shows that the Hand2 protein contributes to the first formation of the embryonic mesothelium

Mesothelioma, which sometimes occurs decades after exposure to asbestos, has long been a mystery to medical professionals

"Dust from asbestos is obviously dangerous over time because it's made of a material that the body can't break down

Asbestos is a mineral found in many construction and mining environments

"Mesothelioma remains a particular concern in Colorado, where mining and construction operations have been ongoing for years," he said

Next, Mosimann's team will investigate whether it can affect the Hand2 protein and ultimately create better treatments and outcomes for certain cases of mesothelioma without affecting the function of other cells

By continuing to observe zebrafish and use them to shed light on where cells come from, Mosimann and his team hope to shed new light not only on mesothelioma tumors, but also on the causes of innate problems with the epidermis when the embryo first develops know

"It may also ultimately lead to better diagnosis and treatment of children born with congenital hernias and heart disease," he said

Journal Reference :

1. Karin D.