MK (midkine) -Overexpressing Cancers (Mesothelioma, MPNST etc)

MK is an oncogenic growth peptide of 13 kDa, which is over-expressed in
a variety of solid cancers including HMM (human malignant mesothelioma)
and MPNST (malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor). Both expression and
oncogenicity of MK appear to depend on PI3 kinase and its downstream kinases
PAK1 and AKT, which eventually activate NF-kappaB, an oncogenic transcription
factor.

In 2010, two groups independently generated MK-driven oncolytic viruses
(OVs) which selectively kill HMM and MPNST cells, without affecting the
growth of normal counterparts. In vivo, HMM and MPNST xenografts in mice,
intra-tumor injection of these MK-driven OVs almost completely eliminates
these MK-overexpressing cancers. Thus, if one can administer these MK-driven
OVs systemically in the future, these OVs would eliminate a variety of MK-
overexpressing solid tumors. However, commercialization of these OVs would
take 7-10 years to clear the time-consuming clinical trials, in order
to get the FDA-approval.

Until then, what shall the patients suffering from these MK-everexpressing
tumors take for the treatment of their cancers? So far no FDA-approved
effective therapeutic is available on the market for either HMM or MPNST.

The following is my expert suggestion: For both MPNST patients and the remaining
NF patients, take the CAPE-based propolis "Bio 30" or ARC (artepillin C)-based
Brazilian green propolis extract (GPE), because these tumors require PAK1
for their growth, and the propolis blocks PAK1 selectively.

For patients suffering from NF2-deficient HMM, take "Bio 30" or "GPE", because
NF2-deficient HMM also require PAK1 for their growth.

How about NF2-positive HMM? The growth of the latter HMM is independent
of PAK1, and probably depends on AKT. Thus, these HMM patients should take
an old drug(s) that blocks AKT (and PAK1), such as thalidomide (200 mg daily).