 |
Maligant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a neoplastic disease that arises in the pleura and relentlessly grows into adjacent structures eventually resulting in the patient's death. It is thought to be caused by asbestos exposure, but the biology and pathogenesis of this tumor are poorly understood. It is a rapidly lethal cancer for which there are few effective therapeutic options except for patients with very early disease.
Current laboratory efforts are focused on identifying tumor supressors and oncogenes that are unique to MPM and which may shed light on the biology of the tumor and hopefully open avenues for better therapeutic interventions. Using a unique resource, a large collection of cryopreserved tissues from patients with MPM, we are setting up subtraction cloning of such mesothelioma specific genes. It is hoped to identify relevant known genes and possibly some new ones that will help elucidate the pathogenesis of this malignancy.
Dr. Mentzer's primary research interest lies in the area of regenerative medicine and tissue engineering. His current studies focus on the microcirculatory adaptations associated with inflammation and tissue repair. Dr. Mentzer's laboratory places particular emphasis on developments in image analysis, which permit these complex processes to be visualized.
Email KC Zahner, Administrative Director, for comments about this website.
©2010, Division of Thoracic Surgery at Brigham and Women's Hospital. All rights reserved.
NOTICE: This email is not for medically related issues. Comments or concerns regarding patient-related care should be directed to the Thoracic Surgery Clinic at 617-732-6824.
Division of Thoracic Surgery
Brigham and Women's Hospital
75 Francis Street
Boston, MA 02115