We are all surely thankful to live during a time when innovations in technology and medicine are improving our lives in amazing ways. As a result, average life spans continue to rise, and many people who suffer from injury, illness, and disease have a higher quality of life than they did in the past. Moreover, some people predict that exponential improvements in healthcare will be driven by technology in the very near future.
Unfortunately, there are many fights left to fight. People suffer from numerous diseases and medical conditions that have not been cured. Mesothelioma is an example. As researchers seek answers to this and other diseases, new treatments and breakthroughs often come in several smaller steps, rather than all at once.
This article will review some hopeful news from recent results from a T-Cell clinical trial for Mesothelioma therapy.
Gavo-cel Research
A company called TCR2 Therapeutics, Inc. has been developing a drug called gavo-cel (garocabtagene autoleucel). According to the company, gavo-cel is a t-cell therapy that targets mesothelin-positive solid tumors. However, the potential treatment is still investigational therapy. Therefore, it has yet to be approved for use by patients. Nevertheless, there have been some positive results.
First, the company reported positive data from its Phase I trial. Tumor regression was experienced in 93 percent of heavily pretreated patients. The trial included mesothelioma patients, including patients with ovarian cancer and one with cholangiocarcinoma. The results appeared to be most favorable for ovarian cancer but were also positive for mesothelioma patients.
Phase II trials examine gavo-cel, including when combined with nivolumab and ipilimumab, two drugs previously approved by the FDA for treating mesothelioma. The test will determine if gavo-cel is better when used alone or combined with these other drugs. Hopefully, the results will be even better than before. As always, we encourage any hope for future treatment options for those suffering from the disease.
The Development of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a rare and incurable disease that is often caused by exposure to asbestos. In fact, asbestos exposure is listed as the number one risk factor, accounting for 80 percent of all mesothelioma cases. The most common way that people are exposed to asbestos is through their jobs. Specific industries, such as shipbuilding, construction, and others, have a greater incidence of exposure.
When asbestos is disturbed (such as by sawing, sanding, hammering, etc.), fibers of the material become airborne and can be inhaled. Over time, these fibers can become embedded in the lining of the organs. Damage to the lining can result in scarring and inflammation, ultimately leading to disease.
Fortunately, while asbestos is not entirely illegal in the United States, the government finally came to appreciate the dangers of asbestos exposure and at least limited usage of the material. But, unfortunately, mesothelioma can take many years to develop, even decades. That means that people who were exposed to the mineral many years ago can still develop the disease in the future.
Call with Questions
If you or a loved one has mesothelioma or any other illness related to asbestos exposure, it is often possible to recover from the harm that has been caused. However, we know you will almost certainly have questions about your legal rights as well. Please call us for a free consultation, and we will answer all of your questions with patience and understanding.
The experienced mesothelioma attorneys at Nelson MacNeil Rayfield help clients all across Oregon who have contracted asbestos-related illnesses. We believe that those who caused the harm should be held responsible for their actions. That is the only way to make society safer for everyone.