Introduction
Mesothelioma is a devastating form of cancer that has affected millions of people worldwide. It is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos, a group of minerals that were widely used in construction, shipbuilding, and other industries throughout the 20th century. Unfortunately, mesothelioma is a highly aggressive cancer that is resistant to many conventional treatments, and it can be difficult to detect in its early stages.
However, there is hope on the horizon. Researchers like Dr. Christine L. Lau are working tirelessly to find new treatments and improve outcomes for mesothelioma patients. Dr. Lau is a renowned thoracic surgeon and researcher who specializes in mesothelioma and other cancers of the chest. Her groundbreaking work has shed new light on the biology of mesothelioma and opened up new avenues for treatment.
In this article, we’ll delve into the life and work of Dr. Christine L. Lau, exploring her background, accomplishments, and ongoing mission to find a cure for mesothelioma.
Early Life and Education
Dr. Lau was born and raised in New York City, where she developed an early interest in science and medicine. After completing her undergraduate studies at Yale University, she went on to earn her medical degree from the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons.
Dr. Lau then completed her surgical residency at the New York Presbyterian Hospital, followed by a fellowship in thoracic surgery at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. During her training, she developed a strong interest in mesothelioma, which she saw firsthand in many of her patients.
Professional Career
After completing her fellowship, Dr. Lau joined the faculty of the University of Virginia School of Medicine, where she focused on mesothelioma research and patient care. She quickly established herself as a leading expert in the field, publishing numerous papers and presenting at national and international conferences.
In 2015, Dr. Lau was recruited by the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) to lead its newly established Mesothelioma Program. She also serves as the co-director of the Lung Cancer Center and chief of the Division of Thoracic Surgery.
The UPMC Mesothelioma Program
The UPMC Mesothelioma Program is dedicated to providing the most advanced, compassionate care for patients with mesothelioma. The program is staffed by a team of experienced physicians, nurses, and researchers who work together to develop personalized treatment plans for each patient.
Dr. Lau and her colleagues are particularly interested in developing new therapies for mesothelioma, including targeted drugs, immunotherapies, and gene therapies. They are also investigating new methods of early detection and screening, which could improve outcomes for patients in the future.
Research Contributions
Dr. Lau’s research has focused on understanding the molecular mechanisms that drive mesothelioma growth and spread. She has identified several key pathways that are altered in mesothelioma cells, including the Hippo pathway and the Notch pathway. By elucidating these pathways, Dr. Lau and her colleagues have identified new targets for therapy, such as the protein YAP, which is overexpressed in many mesothelioma tumors.
Dr. Lau has also been involved in clinical trials testing new mesothelioma treatments. She is a principal investigator on several trials of immunotherapies, including a trial of an antibody drug called pembrolizumab that targets the protein PD-1. The trials have shown promising results, and Dr. Lau and her colleagues are hopeful that these drugs will eventually become a standard part of mesothelioma treatment.
Awards and Honors
Dr. Lau has received numerous awards and honors for her work in mesothelioma research and patient care. In 2018, she was named a “Hero of Hope” by the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation, in recognition of her dedication to finding a cure for the disease. She has also been recognized by the American College of Surgeons and the Society of Thoracic Surgeons for her contributions to the field.
Table: Dr. Christine L. Lau’s Life and Work
| Education | Yale University (undergraduate), Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons (medical degree) |
|---|---|
| Training | New York Presbyterian Hospital (surgical residency), Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (thoracic surgery fellowship) |
| Current Position | Co-director of the UPMC Lung Cancer Center, chief of the Division of Thoracic Surgery |
| Notable Contributions | Identified key molecular pathways in mesothelioma, leading to new targets for therapy; conducted clinical trials of immunotherapies; established the UPMC Mesothelioma Program |
| Awards and Honors | “Hero of Hope” (Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation), Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, Fellow of the Society of Thoracic Surgeons |
FAQs
What is mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the mesothelium, a thin layer of tissue that lines the chest and abdominal cavities. It is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos, a group of minerals that were widely used in construction, shipbuilding, and other industries throughout the 20th century.
What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?
The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary depending on the location and stage of the cancer. Common symptoms include chest pain, coughing, shortness of breath, fatigue, and weight loss.
How is mesothelioma diagnosed?
Mesothelioma is typically diagnosed through a combination of imaging tests, such as X-rays and CT scans, and biopsy samples of the affected tissue.
Is mesothelioma curable?
Currently, there is no cure for mesothelioma. However, there are several treatment options available, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, which can help to improve symptoms and extend survival.
What is Dr. Christine L. Lau’s area of expertise?
Dr. Lau is a thoracic surgeon and researcher who specializes in mesothelioma and other cancers of the chest.
What is the UPMC Mesothelioma Program?
The UPMC Mesothelioma Program is a specialized clinic that provides advanced, personalized care for patients with mesothelioma. It is staffed by a team of experienced physicians, researchers, and nurses who work together to develop individualized treatment plans for each patient.
What are some of the challenges of treating mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a highly aggressive cancer that often spreads quickly and is resistant to many conventional treatments. Additionally, the symptoms of mesothelioma can be vague and nonspecific, making it difficult to diagnose in its early stages.
What are some new therapies being developed for mesothelioma?
Researchers like Dr. Lau are investigating several new therapies for mesothelioma, including targeted drugs, immunotherapies, and gene therapies. These therapies are designed to attack the cancer cells more specifically, with fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
What is immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses the body’s own immune system to fight cancer. This is typically done by stimulating or enhancing the immune system’s natural ability to recognize and attack cancer cells.
What is gene therapy?
Gene therapy is a type of cancer treatment that involves altering the genes within cancer cells to make them less harmful. This can be done by introducing new genes that help to kill cancer cells, or by blocking or modifying existing genes that promote cancer growth.
What is the Hippo pathway?
The Hippo pathway is a cellular signaling pathway that plays an important role in controlling cell growth and division. Abnormal activity of the Hippo pathway has been implicated in several types of cancer, including mesothelioma.
What is the Notch pathway?
The Notch pathway is another cellular signaling pathway that plays an important role in cell growth and differentiation. Aberrant Notch signaling has also been implicated in several types of cancer, including mesothelioma.
How can I support mesothelioma research?
There are several ways to support mesothelioma research, including making a donation to a mesothelioma research foundation, participating in a clinical trial, or volunteering your time to help raise awareness about the disease.
How can I find a mesothelioma specialist?
To find a mesothelioma specialist in your area, you can speak to your primary care physician, search online for specialized clinics or cancer centers, or contact a mesothelioma advocacy organization for recommendations.
What can I do to reduce my risk of mesothelioma?
The best way to reduce your risk of mesothelioma is to avoid exposure to asbestos. If you work in an industry where asbestos is present, be sure to follow all safety protocols and wear appropriate protective gear. Additionally, if you live in an older home or building, have it inspected for asbestos-containing materials and have them removed if necessary.
Conclusion
Dr. Christine L. Lau is a true pioneer in the field of mesothelioma research and patient care. Her dedication to finding new treatments and improving outcomes for mesothelioma patients is truly inspiring, and her work has already had a profound impact on the field.
As we look to the future, it is clear that the fight against mesothelioma is far from over. However, with innovative researchers and clinicians like Dr. Lau leading the way, we are making progress every day. If you or a loved one has been affected by mesothelioma, we urge you to seek out a specialist and consider participating in clinical trials to help advance the field. Together, we can fight this devastating disease and work towards a cure.
Closing
While all reasonable care has been taken in the preparation of this article, the author and publisher make no warranty, representation or undertaking concerning the accuracy or completeness of the information contained herein. The information contained in this article is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Consult your physician or a qualified healthcare professional for any questions or concerns you may have regarding mesothelioma or any other medical condition.
