Research continues to find a way to effectively treat and eventually one day find a cure for mesothelioma. Recently, some promising news came as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted what is called “orphan drug” status to a particular type of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy called SynKIR-110. CAR T-cell therapy helps T-cells fight cancer by altering the genes so they can better locate and destroy cancer cells.
The drug, which is manufactured by Verismo Therapeutics, has shown positive results in bringing about complete remission of mesothelioma in mouse models. In a press release, the CEO of Verismo Therapeutics said, “We look forward to working with the mesothelioma community to advance SynKIR-110 as a potential treatment while we continue to expand clinical investigation of this novel platform in other cancers in the solid tumor space.” Verismo Therapeutics says it plans to start testing the drug on humans early next year.
Why is orphan drug designation important?
Orphan drug designation by the FDA is important because these drugs are used for rare conditions (those affecting fewer than 200,000 people in the U.S.) Because of the relatively small number of patients who can benefit from these drugs, it’s not financially viable for most pharmaceutical companies to manufacture and market drugs to treat these conditions. When the FDA gives orphan drug designation to a drug that shows promise, it provides these companies with financial and tax incentives for continuing research and testing.
The prospects for those suffering from mesothelioma, which is typically caused by exposure to asbestos, are better than they’ve ever been. However, it is crucial for those suffering from this disease to have the financial resources they need to take advantage of these advancements as they come along. If you or a loved one is suffering from mesothelioma as a result of asbestos exposure, be sure you look into all of your options for compensation that will help with treatment costs and other financial needs.