New methods to enhance treatment for mesothelioma
Novel strategies to improve mesothelioma therapy
This study is looking at how certain antidepressant medications might help make chemotherapy work better for people with malignant mesothelioma, a type of cancer caused by asbestos exposure, by blocking the ways cancer cells protect themselves.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Hawaii at Manoa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Honolulu, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11074658 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain antidepressant drugs can improve the effectiveness of chemotherapy for patients with malignant mesothelioma, a cancer linked to asbestos exposure. The study focuses on understanding the mechanisms that make mesothelioma cells resistant to chemotherapy and how these drugs can inhibit protective processes in cancer cells. By combining antidepressants with a specific inhibitor, the research aims to enhance the sensitivity of mesothelioma cells to chemotherapy, potentially leading to better treatment outcomes. Patient biopsies will also be analyzed to assess the effects of these treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma who are undergoing or considering chemotherapy.
Not a fit: Patients with mesothelioma who are not receiving chemotherapy or those with other types of cancer may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment options for patients with mesothelioma, improving survival rates and quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that combining certain drugs can enhance chemotherapy effectiveness, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Honolulu, United States
- University of Hawaii at Manoa — Honolulu, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yang, Haining — University of Hawaii at Manoa
- Study coordinator: Yang, Haining
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.