Meso2, a study funded by Synta Pharmaceuticals, aims to test the effectiveness of a drug called ganetespib in preventing mesothelioma tumours. Ganetespib inhibits the action of a protein in cells called heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) – which is required for the stabilization and proper functioning of many proteins required for tumour growth. The trial will involve around 140 patients across the UK, and is being led by Professor Fennell. The second trial is part of a global trial named COMMAND (Control of Mesothelioma with MAiNtenance Defactinib) sponsored by pharmaceutical company Verastem, which will investigate a new drug called defactinib. The researchers believe the drug could help to inhibit focal adhesion kinase (FAK), which is critical for the cancer stem cells’ development into tumours. Posted by Lou Williams
Posted on: Wed, 25 Sep 2013 21:26:05 +0000