Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, chest, abdomen, and heart. It is caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral that was widely used in construction and other industries until its health risks became known. Mesothelioma is difficult to diagnose and treat, and the prognosis is generally poor. However, there are ongoing clinical trials investigating new treatments for mesothelioma that may improve outcomes for patients.
Here are some of the latest clinical trials for mesothelioma treatment:
Nivolumab and Ipilimumab
Nivolumab and ipilimumab are two drugs that work together to stimulate the immune system to attack cancer cells. A clinical trial is currently underway to investigate the safety and effectiveness of this combination therapy in patients with mesothelioma. The trial is being conducted at multiple locations around the world and is expected to conclude in 2023.
Tumor Treating Fields
Tumor treating fields (TTF) are a type of therapy that uses electric fields to disrupt the division of cancer cells. A clinical trial is currently underway to investigate the safety and effectiveness of TTF in combination with chemotherapy in patients with mesothelioma. The trial is being conducted at multiple locations in the United States and is expected to conclude in 2022.
Pembrolizumab
Pembrolizumab is a drug that stimulates the immune system to attack cancer cells. A clinical trial is currently underway to investigate the safety and effectiveness of pembrolizumab in combination with chemotherapy in patients with mesothelioma. The trial is being conducted at multiple locations around the world and is expected to conclude in 2022.
Lurbinectedin
Lurbinectedin is a drug that interferes with the DNA of cancer cells, preventing them from multiplying. A clinical trial is currently underway to investigate the safety and effectiveness of lurbinectedin in combination with doxorubicin, a chemotherapy drug, in patients with mesothelioma. The trial is being conducted at multiple locations in Europe and is expected to conclude in 2023.
Onconase
Onconase is a drug that is derived from the eggs of the leopard frog and has been shown to have anticancer properties. A clinical trial is currently underway to investigate the safety and effectiveness of onconase in combination with chemotherapy in patients with mesothelioma. The trial is being conducted at multiple locations in the United States and is expected to conclude in 2023.
TR002
TR002 is a drug that targets a protein called CD47, which is often overexpressed in cancer cells and helps them evade the immune system. A clinical trial is currently underway to investigate the safety and effectiveness of TR002 in patients with mesothelioma. The trial is being conducted at multiple locations in the United States and is expected to conclude in 2022.
IMCgp100
IMCgp100 is a drug that targets a protein called gp100, which is expressed on the surface of certain cancer cells. A clinical trial is currently underway to investigate the safety and effectiveness of IMCgp100 in combination with durvalumab, a drug that stimulates the immune system, in patients with mesothelioma. The trial is being conducted at multiple locations in the United Kingdom and is expected to conclude in 2023.
Atezolizumab
Atezolizumab is a drug that stimulates the immune system to attack cancer cells. A clinical trial is currently underway to investigate the safety and effectiveness of atezolizumab in combination with bevacizumab, a drug that inhibits the growth of blood vessels that supply tumors, in patients with mesothelioma. The trial is being conducted at multiple locations in the United States and is expected to conclude in 2022.
CRS-207
CRS-207 is a type of immunotherapy that uses a modified form of the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes to stimulate an immune response against cancer cells. A clinical trial is currently underway to investigate the safety and effectiveness of CRS-207 in combination with pembrolizumab in patients with mesothelioma. The trial is being conducted at multiple locations in the United States and is expected to conclude in 2023.
TAK-659
TAK-659 is a drug that inhibits a protein called Bruton’s tyrosine kinase, which is involved in the growth and survival of cancer cells. A clinical trial is currently underway to investigate the safety and effectiveness of TAK-659 in combination with pembrolizumab in patients with mesothelioma. The trial is being conducted at multiple locations in the United States and is expected to conclude in 2023.
In conclusion, there are several ongoing clinical trials investigating new treatments for mesothelioma that may improve outcomes for patients. These trials are investigating a variety of approaches, including immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies. While the results of these trials are not yet known, they offer hope for patients with mesothelioma and their families. It is important for patients with mesothelioma to discuss their treatment options with their healthcare providers and to consider participating in clinical trials if they are eligible.
