Development of “knockout” models aids in mesothelioma research

Sigma Life Sciences is a biotechnology company specializing in research products development and supply. From cell lines to patient models, Sigma provides custom and ready-to-use products for all lines of scientific testing and research. Hoping to “offer researchers cellular models of cancer that are expected to enhance development of drugs for personalized medicine,” Sigma Life Sciences is now providing a line of genetically modified cancer cells.

This addition to available products is great news for mesothelioma researchers as the new cell line will be invaluable in the continued search for a mesothelioma cure. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer affecting about three thousand Americans each year and some ninety thousand people globally. Mesothelioma is caused by asbestos fibers that can begin a cancerous development once inhaled or ingested. Although asbestos risks are known, the toxic material continues to be used in countless industries and building initiatives for its fire resistant qualities and durability.

Mesothelioma affects lining of abdominal cavities, typically that of the lungs. Irregularly patterned tumors grow for decades without demonstrating any signs or symptoms. This latency period is characteristic of mesothelioma and usually lasts for twenty to fifty years, making mesothelioma difficult to diagnose. Patient life expectancy ranges between six months and five years following proper diagnosis of the disease. Mesothelioma treatments are available, including surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Many of these treatments are used in a palliative approach, aiming to manage pain and enhance breathing. There is no known cure for mesothelioma.

Sigma uses its proprietary tool CompoZrZFN to aid in development of personalized treatments through “target validation, identification of mechanistic actions of drugs and investigation of disease development, progression and remission.” CompoZr allows for development of “knockout” models for treatment research. “Knockout” is a term referring to a genetic process in which a gene of a test specimen is decommissioned and removed or “knocked out.” It is then used for comparison to cells of normal or unaffected test specimens.

Sigma Life Sciences has received the silver star medal for “Top Ten Innovations of 2010,” given by The Scientist magazine in recognition of CompprZr’s development of knockout lab rats.

Edward Weinstein, director or SAGE Labs, Sigma Life Sciences’ genetic engineering facilities, says knockout technologies will “provide scientists with powerful new tools to study human diseases.” The new line of genetically modified cells will begin with models of colorectal and lung cancer.

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