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Updated: Jul 2, 2026
07:54
Implantation and Monitoring by PET/CT of an Orthotopic Model of Human Pleural Mesothelioma in Athymic Mice
Published on: December 21, 2019
Mesothelioma epidemiology, carcinogenesis, and pathogenesis
Haining Yang1, Joseph R Testa, Michele Carbone
1Cancer Research Center of Hawaii, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA.
Current Treatment Options in Oncology
|August 19, 2008
Summary
Mesothelioma incidence is rising, linked to asbestos and other mineral fibers. Research explores genetic susceptibility and co-carcinogens like SV40 for new prevention and treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Environmental Health
- Genetics
Background:
- Mesothelioma incidence has significantly increased in the USA, with an estimated 2500-3000 cases annually.
- This cancer is primarily linked to exposure to carcinogenic mineral fibers, notably asbestos.
- Other potential causes include erionite, Simian virus 40 (SV40) infection, and radiation exposure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of mesothelioma causes and incidence.
- To highlight the role of asbestos and other mineral fibers in mesothelioma development.
- To discuss emerging research on co-carcinogens and genetic susceptibility.
Main Methods:
- Review of data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) Program.
- Analysis of scientific literature on mineral fiber carcinogenesis and mesothelioma.
- Examination of recent laboratory findings on asbestos, SV40, and genetic factors.
Main Results:
- Asbestos is the primary cause of mesothelioma in Western countries, inducing cellular changes that promote cancer.
- SV40 infection and asbestos exposure act as co-carcinogens, increasing mesothelioma risk.
- Genetic susceptibility plays a crucial role in the incidence of mesothelioma within certain families.
Conclusions:
- Despite regulations, a decline in mesothelioma incidence has not yet been confirmed.
- Identification of genetic factors may lead to novel preventive and therapeutic strategies for mesothelioma.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the contribution of various factors to mesothelioma incidence.
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