Pleural mesothelioma: new therapeutic approach to enhance sensitivity to chemo- and radiotherapy

Pleural mesothelioma (PM) is mainly caused by asbestos exposure and characterized by poor prognosis and limited therapeutic options. A recent research study led by Karin Schelch and Michael Grusch from MedUni Vienna identified the oncoprotein YB-1 as an attractive therapeutic target in PM and demonstrates that indirect targeting of YB-1 is a promising approach to enhance sensitivity to chemoand radiotherapy. The study results were published in the medical journal "Cancer Letters". The study follows on from findings published earlier this year by the research group led by Michael Grusch (Center for Cancer Research at MedUni Vienna and Comprehensive Cancer Center at MedUni Vienna and University Hospital Vienna), according to which the oncoprotein YB-1 is involved in regulating multiple traits of pleural mesothelioma (PM) such as cell growth, cell death and migration. The current study proves its relevance also in drug response. Accordingly, YB-1 knockdown via siRNA resulted in significantly reduced tumor growth and furthermore enhanced the sensitivity to cisplatin and radiation. Reaching the target.