Gene Therapy Shows Promise for Man Stricken with Mesothelioma

By Ramsay Crooks

Published on November 02, 2005

Mr. Harris was diagnosed with mesothelioma, one of the most unforgiving forms of cancer, after decades of working with asbestos in the Navy and at Owens Corning Fiberglas.

After unsuccessful attempts at chemotherapy, he decided to try an experimental gene therapy that uses a genetically altered cold virus that carries the gene for interferon beta, a natural human protein that fights disease. The treatment infuses 900 billion viral particles into the chest cavity attempting to get the tumor cells to take up the gene-carrying virus and trigger production of interferon beta which would, in turn, activate immune cells.

Mr. Harris' last check-up showed no signs that the cancer had progressed and the base of his lungs even showed some clearing.

Gene therapy has been a controversial treatment over the years, particularly after a trial study had to be stopped when a patient experienced serious complications. Mr. Harris is willing to take his chances and continue his treatment as he was diagnosed with mesothelioma more than 19 months ago and most patients die within eight to 14 months after diagnosis.

Harris is the 10th patient to undergo gene drug treatment. Seven of the 10 patients treated since August, 2003 are still alive.

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