By now, we all know that the deadly cancer mesothelioma is caused by prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers. However, a study from researchers at the Unit of Molecular Epidemiology National Cancer Research Institute in Genoa, Italy suggests that the risks of developing the disease after exposure may be increased by certain gene mutations.
This review paper was published in the science journal Mutation Research under the title “Genetic susceptibility to malignant pleural mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.” The genetic susceptibility that the heading refers to is a polymorphism in metabolic or DNA repair processes. Basically, it is a mutation that causes everyday cell repair and rejuvenation to go awry. The researchers found that when a carcinogen (such as asbestos) is introduced to these haywire cells the risk of cancer goes up significantly.
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How does this discovery help? While mesothelioma continues to be a fatal disease, any news is good news. Though this study yields nothing conclusive, more of its kind may lead to new prevention and diagnosing techniques and treatment options.