Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, chest wall, and abdomen. It is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in construction materials and other industrial products during the mid-20th century. Despite advances in cancer treatment, mesothelioma remains a complex disease with limited treatment options, and the prognosis for patients is often poor.
Fortunately, there are dedicated researchers and clinicians who are working tirelessly to find new treatments and improve the lives of mesothelioma patients. The Akt RB2 Mesothelioma Grant is one initiative that is helping to fund this vital research. Established by the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (MARF), the grant provides funding to researchers who are exploring the use of Akt/RB2 pathway inhibitors as a potential treatment for mesothelioma.
Akt RB2 Mesothelioma Grant Awardees 2017
The Akt RB2 Mesothelioma Grant has been awarded to several outstanding researchers in 2017. These researchers come from institutions across the United States, and their work is focused on advancing our understanding of mesothelioma and developing new treatments.
| Researcher | Institution | Project Title |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Alberto J. Montero | Mayo Clinic Arizona | Targeting the Akt/mTOR pathway in malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) |
| Dr. Marjorie Zauderer | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center | Clinical development of the Akt inhibitor MK-2206 in mesothelioma |
| Dr. Giovanni Gaudino | Boston University School of Medicine | The Efficacy of C/EBP Homologous Protein Inhibitor in Mesothelioma |
Dr. Alberto J. Montero
Dr. Alberto J. Montero is an Assistant Professor of Medicine at the Mayo Clinic in Arizona. His research has focused on the molecular basis of cancer, particularly in mesothelioma. With the Akt RB2 Mesothelioma Grant, Dr. Montero plans to explore the use of Akt/mTOR pathway inhibitors in the treatment of malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM).
MPM is a particularly aggressive form of mesothelioma that affects the lining of the lungs. It is notoriously difficult to treat, and current treatments are associated with significant side effects. Dr. Montero’s work aims to identify new therapies that target the Akt/mTOR pathway, which is known to play a role in cancer cell growth and survival.
By identifying new pathways that are critical to MPM cell survival, Dr. Montero hopes to develop new therapies that could improve outcomes for patients with this devastating disease.
Dr. Marjorie Zauderer
Dr. Marjorie Zauderer is an Assistant Attending Physician and Assistant Professor of Medicine at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City. Her research has focused on developing new treatments for mesothelioma, particularly through clinical trials.
With the Akt RB2 Mesothelioma Grant, Dr. Zauderer plans to test the efficacy of MK-2206, an Akt inhibitor, in combination with chemotherapy in patients with mesothelioma. The study will assess the safety and potential efficacy of this treatment approach, with the goal of identifying new therapies that can improve outcomes for patients with mesothelioma.
Dr. Giovanni Gaudino
Dr. Giovanni Gaudino is an Assistant Professor of Surgery at Boston University School of Medicine. His research focuses on identifying new therapeutic targets for mesothelioma, particularly through the use of proteomic and genomic approaches.
With the Akt RB2 Mesothelioma Grant, Dr. Gaudino plans to investigate the use of C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) inhibitors in mesothelioma. CHOP is a transcription factor that has been implicated in the growth and survival of cancer cells, and Dr. Gaudino’s work aims to identify new ways to target this pathway in mesothelioma.
FAQs
What is the Akt RB2 Mesothelioma Grant?
The Akt RB2 Mesothelioma Grant is a funding initiative established by the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (MARF). The grant provides funding to researchers who are exploring the use of Akt/RB2 pathway inhibitors as a potential treatment for mesothelioma.
Who is eligible for the grant?
Researchers from institutions across the United States are eligible to apply for the grant. Applicants must submit a research proposal that is focused on advancing our understanding of mesothelioma and developing new treatments.
What are Akt/RB2 pathway inhibitors?
Akt/RB2 pathway inhibitors are a class of drugs that target certain signaling pathways in cancer cells. These pathways are involved in cell growth, division, and survival, and inhibiting them can lead to cancer cell death. Researchers believe that Akt/RB2 pathway inhibitors may hold promise as a treatment for mesothelioma.
What is malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM)?
Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a particularly aggressive form of mesothelioma that affects the lining of the lungs. It is typically caused by exposure to asbestos, and it is notoriously difficult to treat.
What is the prognosis for mesothelioma?
The prognosis for mesothelioma patients is typically poor, as the disease is often diagnosed in its later stages. However, there are some treatment options available, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Researchers are also exploring new therapies that may improve outcomes for patients with mesothelioma.
How common is mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a relatively rare form of cancer, with approximately 3,000 new cases diagnosed each year in the United States. It is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos, which was commonly used in construction materials and other industrial products during the mid-20th century.
What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?
The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary depending on the location and stage of the disease. Common symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing, fatigue, and weight loss.
What are some risk factors for mesothelioma?
The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Other risk factors may include smoking, radiation exposure, and certain genetic mutations.
How is mesothelioma diagnosed?
Mesothelioma is typically diagnosed through a combination of imaging tests, such as CT scans and X-rays, and biopsies. If mesothelioma is suspected, a biopsy will be performed to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type and stage of the disease.
What are the treatment options for mesothelioma?
The treatment options for mesothelioma may vary depending on the stage and location of the disease. Common treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Researchers are also exploring new therapies, including immunotherapy and targeted therapies.
What are some common side effects of mesothelioma treatment?
Common side effects of mesothelioma treatment may include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, hair loss, and changes in appetite. More serious side effects may include infections, bleeding, and organ damage.
What is the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (MARF)?
The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (MARF) is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to finding a cure for mesothelioma. The foundation provides funding for research, advocacy, and support to mesothelioma patients and their families.
How can I support mesothelioma research and advocacy?
There are many ways to support mesothelioma research and advocacy. You can donate to organizations like the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (MARF), participate in fundraising events, and spread awareness about the disease and its causes.
What is the outlook for mesothelioma research?
Mesothelioma research is a rapidly evolving field, with new discoveries and breakthroughs happening all the time. While there is still much to be learned about the disease, researchers are making strides in understanding its underlying biology and identifying new treatment approaches. With continued funding and support, there is hope that new therapies will be developed that can improve outcomes for mesothelioma patients.
Conclusion
The Akt RB2 Mesothelioma Grant is one initiative that is helping to fund cutting-edge research into mesothelioma. By supporting researchers who are dedicated to finding new treatments and improving outcomes for patients with mesothelioma, the grant is making a real difference in the fight against this devastating disease.
While there is still much to be learned about mesothelioma, the work of the grant awardees is providing hope for the future. With continued funding and support, there is confidence that new therapies will be developed that can improve outcomes for mesothelioma patients and eventually lead to a cure.
We urge you to consider supporting mesothelioma research and advocacy in any way you can. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by this disease.
Closing/Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for advice and guidance concerning your own health needs.
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