New evidence suggests that an enzyme found in pineapple extract may make peritoneal mesothelioma cells more vulnerable to chemotherapy. In the past, this enzyme – called bromelain – has been shown to have a negative effect on pancreatic and breast cancer cells. Now, researchers in Australia have discovered that it may also be toxic to mesothelioma cells, especially when used alongside the drug cisplatin in chemotherapy.
Bromelain breaks down a protein known as MUC-1. This protein is found in several different mesothelioma cell lines, and is part of what helps cancer cells invade and spread – as well as withstand the toxicity of chemotherapy. Different concentrations of bromelain have been tested (both with and without chemotherapy drugs) on mesothelioma cells, and the results have been promising.
Bromelain alone had a negative impact on the treated mesothelioma cells after 4 and 72 hours. However, when combined with cisplatin, the effects were even more significant. Based on this study, bromelain may potentially be developed as therapeutic agent to be used in multimodal treatment of peritoneal mesothelioma. However, as with all new treatments, it will have to first undergo more testing to determine its safety and effectiveness.
If you or one of your loved ones has been diagnosed with mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure, you deserve the very best medical care available. Please contact The Law Office of Brown | Kiely, LLP today or call (410) 625-9330 to schedule a free case evaluation with one of our experienced Baltimore mesothelioma attorneys. We serve clients Baltimore, Maryland, Washington D.C., and nationwide.
