The impact of Lyall's legacy on mesothelioma research

Mesothelioma is not only highly aggressive, but the cells are also incredibly cunning, creating communication networks to stay connected and avoid targeted treatment drugs. They’re so skilled at avoiding treatments that most patients will only survive four to 18 months after their diagnosis.

But the late Lyall Watts believed research could find a way to silence mesothelioma and stop it in its tracks. And it’s thanks to his generosity, and that of his family and partner Gary, that the Lyall Watts Mesothelioma Research Fund was established in 2016.

In the words of Lyall’s mother, Marjory, supporting research in this way “continues Lyall’s unfailing efforts to help people suffering from the same terrible disease that afflicted him.”

“Mesothelioma research is vital for our understanding of this lesser-known cancer,” added Lyall’s partner Gary. “It can also lead to developing better treatment options, and ultimately, finding a cure. This was my partner Lyall’s wish.”

Because many mesothelioma cancer cells are highly skilled at developing resistance to treatment, current treatments are not effective long-term and can have harsh side-effects. New approaches to successfully treating mesothelioma are needed.

“Much like cars finding alternative routes in a traffic jam, these cancer cells adjust their communication pathways to dodge the effects of the drug,” said Cancer Council Victoria Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Dr Milad Ghomlaghi.

Generously supported through the Lyall Watts Mesothelioma Research Fund, Dr Ghomlaghi is working to stop mesothelioma cells from finding alternative pathways to spread in the body.

“I aim to unravel how the communication pathways within the cells work together to counteract the effects of targeted treatments,” said Dr Ghomlaghi.

By finding weak spots in this communication network within cancer cells, Dr Ghomlaghi will identify new treatment targets to break these pathways, which could lead to novel effective combination treatments.

“This combination treatment approach is similar to attacking the enemy from various angles with smaller units instead of one large force, aiming for results with fewer side effects,” said Dr Ghomlaghi.

Dr Ghomlaghi’s research will be an important step in better understanding the disease.

This work is personal to Dr Ghomlaghi who understands all too well the devastating impact of a cancer diagnosis.

“I have had loved ones who have battled cancer, and their journeys have had a profound impact on my life. This personal connection has inspired me to take action as I understand the devastating toll such diseases can take on individuals and their support networks,” said Dr Ghomlaghi.

“Progress is being made thanks to the great work of our researchers,” said Marjory, “and it’s only with this growing knowledge that treatments can be developed.”

For Lyall’s loved ones, research is how his legacy continues to be felt, bringing hope for MPM patients to live longer and have a better quality of life in future.

“Lyall died trying, and we hope we can help others to avoid the same relentless path of this disease,” said Marjory.

“By continuing to fund mesothelioma research I believe we are getting another step closer to fulfilling Lyall’s wish,” added Gary.