Mechanisms of carcinogenesis and clinical features of asbestos-associated cancers

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184 Scopus citations

Abstract

Exposure to asbestos, particularly members of the amphibole subgroup (crocidolite, amosite), is associated with the development of malignant mesothelioma and lung cancer. Although management of asbestos in buildings and increased regulation of asbestos in workplace settings are viable approaches to the prevention of disease, the prognosis of asbestos-associated tumors is generally dismal. Moreover, although a vast amount of information is available on the responses of cells and tissues to fibers, understanding the pathogenesis of asbestos-associated malignancies is hampered by the complexity of and differences between various fiber types. Multiple interactions between components of cigarette smoke and asbestos may be important in the development of lung cancer. In this article, the general properties of asbestos fibers will be discussed with an emphasis on chemical and physical features implicated in tumorigenesis. We will then provide a brief overview of the clinical features and treatment of cancers associated with exposure to asbestos. Finally, we will review recent experimental data providing some insight into the cellular and molecular mechanisms of carcinogenesis by asbestos.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)466-480
Number of pages15
JournalCancer Investigation
Volume14
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - 1996

Funding

We thank Bernie Raveilelle for preparation of the manuscript. Research by Dr. Mossman is supported by grants from the National Insti-tutc of Environniental Health Sciences, the National Heart Lung and Blocxl Institute, and the Environmental Protection Agency. Research by Dr. Kanip is supported by grants from the Veterans Administration (Merit Proposal) and the Asbestos Victims Special Fund Trust, a pub- lic-supported charitable organization. The contents of the article do not necessarily reflect the views of the Trust or parties that support it. Research hy Dr. Weiizman is supported by the National Institutes of Health.

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Oncology
  • Cancer Research

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