Understanding Genetic Risk Factors for Mesothelioma Cancer

It is a well-known fact within the medical and scientific communities that exposure to asbestos is the primary cause of mesothelioma cancer. However, research increasingly shows that there can be other significant factors that affect who may be at risk for developing this dangerous and often fatal disease.

One of those factors, interestingly enough, may be genetics. Scientists now have reason to believe that some individuals may be susceptible to developing mesothelioma because of gene mutations and other genetic factors.

The BAP1 Gene and Its Connection to Mesothelioma

In 2011, cancer researchers gleaned insight into the possibility that a mutation in the BAP1 gene may lead to an increased susceptibility for developing mesothelioma. The study in question researched two families who had both high incidences of mesothelioma and the BAP1 gene mutation within the family.

The researchers went on to discover that every family member who had been diagnosed with mesothelioma was also a carrier of the BAP1 genetic mutation. With this information, the researchers went on to investigate other individuals who had mesothelioma but did not have a known family history of mesothelioma cancer. Even for these patients, 1 in 4 were found to carry a BAP1 gene mutation.

In the years since this influential study, other research has shown that BAP1 may be birth-inherited or developed later once cells become malignant with cancer. Specifically, if the person’s BAP1 gene mutates or becomes damaged in another way, there is an increased likelihood that the body’s mesothelial cells will become malignant if exposed to known environmental carcinogens and hazards, including asbestos fibers.

Now, it is thought possible that the BAP1 mutation may be found in 7 out of 10 mesothelioma cases. As such, a better understanding of the BAP1 gene may prove instrumental in improving treatment and patient outcomes for malignant mesothelioma.

That said, additional research is now showing that BAP1 is not the only genetic risk linked to mesothelioma.

Are Other Genes Linked to Mesothelioma As Well?

University of Antwerp researchers have also recently noted that the BAP1 protein was not overproduced or present for a number of families who had multiple mesothelioma patients. As such, the researchers investigated whether other "cancer census genes" were present instead. Indeed, the team discovered that 11 such genes were found that are also believed to play a role in furthering the development of cancer.

Based on this finding, the researchers now recommended that the gene called RBM15 should also be investigated further for a genetic link to mesothelioma.

While these findings now give further credence to the idea that other genetic markers may predispose individuals and families to developing mesothelioma, it is important to reiterate that the primary cause of mesothelioma is asbestos exposure.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, our team at The Ledger Law Firm will help you explore your legal options and pursue any party who bears legal responsibility for your diagnosis.

Contact us online for a free case evaluation today.