Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 2, 2025
Generation and Expansion of Primary, Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma Tumor Lines
Published on: April 21, 2022
Molecular Pathways in Peritoneal Mesothelioma: A Minireview of New Insights
Francesco Fortarezza1, Federica Pezzuto1, Andrea Marzullo2
1Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Pathology Unit, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
Abstract:
Mesothelioma is a rare malignant neoplasm with poor survival. It mainly affects the pleura (90%) but can arise in all serous cavities: peritoneum (5-10%), pericardium and tunica vaginalis testis (<1%). The onset of pleural mesothelioma is strictly related to asbestos exposure with a long latency time. The causal link with asbestos has also been suggested for peritoneal mesothelioma, while the importance of exposure in the onset of pericardial and tunica vaginalis testis mesotheliomas is not well known. Mesothelioma remains an aggressive and fatal disease with a five-year mortality rate higher than 95%. However, new therapeutic approaches based on molecular-targeted and immunomodulatory therapies are being explored but have conflicting results. In this context, the identification of critical targets appears mandatory. Awareness of the molecular and physiological changes leading to the neoplastic degeneration of mesothelial cells and the identification of gene mutations, epigenetic alterations, gene expression profiles and altered pathways could be helpful for selecting targetable mechanisms and molecules. In this review, we aimed to report recent research in the last 20 years focusing on the molecular pathways and prognostic factors in peritoneal mesothelioma and their possible diagnostic and therapeutic implications.
Insights
Mesothelioma is a rare cancer affecting serous cavities. This review explores molecular pathways and prognostic factors in peritoneal mesothelioma, seeking new diagnostic and therapeutic targets.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pathology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Mesothelioma is a rare, aggressive cancer primarily affecting the pleura, but also the peritoneum, pericardium, and tunica vaginalis testis.
- Pleural mesothelioma is strongly linked to asbestos exposure, while the etiology of other mesothelioma types is less understood.
- Despite poor prognosis, novel molecular-targeted and immunomodulatory therapies show mixed results, necessitating identification of critical targets.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent research (last 20 years) on molecular pathways in peritoneal mesothelioma.
- To identify prognostic factors relevant to peritoneal mesothelioma.
- To explore potential diagnostic and therapeutic implications of these findings.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies published in the last two decades.
- Focus on molecular alterations, gene mutations, epigenetic changes, and pathway dysregulation.
- Analysis of prognostic factors in peritoneal mesothelioma.
Main Results:
- Detailed examination of molecular pathways implicated in mesothelial cell neoplasia.
- Identification of key gene mutations and epigenetic alterations.
- Discussion of altered signaling pathways contributing to mesothelioma development.
Conclusions:
- Understanding molecular changes is crucial for identifying therapeutic targets in peritoneal mesothelioma.
- Prognostic factors can aid in patient management and treatment selection.
- Further research into molecular mechanisms may lead to improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
Related Concept Videos
02:30Metastasis
Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition
The epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition or EMT is a developmental process commonly observed in wound healing, embryogenesis, and cancer metastasis. EMT is induced by transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) or receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) ligands, which further...
02:17The Tumor Microenvironment