Over the years, there has been increased focus on new and alternative treatments for cancer to replace the standard surgery, radiation and damaging drugs. This enlightening book presents the various cancer therapeutics that are being used and those under development, as a result of our knowledge about oncogenes, tumour suppressor genes and viral and non-viral replication. "Tumor Suppressing Viruses, Genes and Drugs" attempts to bridge the oncology and research community, it should also of interest to gene therapists, molecular biologists, and cell biologists interested in tumour development and spread.

This volume gathers the leading research on antibody-drug conjugates and immunotoxins. Following a rigorous overview, the volume delves into focused sections on all aspects of ADCs and ITs from clinical development through to targeted therapeutic applications and the latest technologies.

Our work began where the greatest classical morphologists left off; their best work was the start of ours. As our work progressed, the rigidity of basic, previous embryological principles was broken down as scientific knowledge advanced. At the same time, the molecular, biological characterization of the cell surface receptor systems progressed enormously with the invention of numerous monoclonal antibodies. Thus, thymology became once again very important because the thymus is the first and central organ of the human immunological system. Then, the question of immuno-neuroendocrine regulation arose and has only been partially answered. Our book seeks to explore what has not been explored. The topic of thymic epithelial cells is a unique one and has never been explored in any previous book as it is explored in this one.

Only a handful of great thymologists remain in the world today, especially after the great loss the medical community suffered with the passing of Dr. Good, the list includes but is not limited to: Dr. Ritter and Dr. Kendall in England, Dr. Savino in Brazil, Dr. Dardenne in France, Dr. von Gaudecker in Germany, a few others in Belgium and Holland, and it is our hope that Dr. Bodey is among them. Nonetheless, a book on the thymus has not been written in the last five years and a book such as this one has never been. This book is based on a 30-year period of research and includes references from a broad range of sources spanning the globe and all sources, even those that were the beginning of thymic research. The book, thus, is uniquely well rounded, more so that previous works.

The Advances in Cancer Research series provides invaluable information on the exciting and fast-moving field of cancer research. This volume presents outstanding and original reviews on a variety of topics, including suppressor and oncogenic roles of TGF-b and its signaling pathways in tumorigenesis, hereditary diffuse gastric disease, the role of heparan sulfate proteoglycans in cell signaling and cancer, V-gene mutations in B-cell-derived human malignancy, MHC antigens and tumor escape from immune surveillance, the role of selection in progressive neoplastic transformation, and the genomic stability, neuronal development, and cancer cross paths of ATM.
*Suppressor and Oncogenic Roles of TGF-aand Its Signaling Pathways in Tumorigenesis
*Hereditary Diffuse Gastric Disease
*Role of Heparan Sulfate Proteoglycans in Cell Signaling and Cancer
*The Occurrence and Significance of V-Vene Mutations in B Cell-Derived Human Malignancy
*MHC Antigens and Tumor Escape from Immune Surveillance
*Foundations in Cancer Research: The Role of Selection in Progressive Neoplastic Transformation
*ATM: Genomic Stability, Neuronal Development, and Cancer Cross Paths

This book covers the molecular and cellular aspects of cancer metastasis, and discusses the clinical aspect of micro- and macro-metastases, which result in the death of the majority of patients with cancer. The current edition attempts to examine the current status of the basic scientific and clinical research in the area, and is a very useful reference for clinicians, oncologists, and biologists. It is intended for undergraduates as well as postgraduates in the area of medicine, oncology, and cancer biology.

Malignant mesothelioma is an aggressive and fatal neoplasm of serous membranes that still shows a rising incidence worldwide. This book covers all the important aspects of the disease by bringing together contributions from selected experts in the fields of epidemiology, imaging, pathological diagnosis, therapy, genetics, and screening. Special emphasis is placed on the latest diagnostic techniques and current therapy standards. In addition, the mineralogy of asbestos is reviewed and clear advice is included on the analysis of tissue mineral fiber content. By providing a compact, scientifically based, and up-to-date overview of the management of malignant mesothelioma, this volume will be invaluable for all clinicians and pathologists who are engaged in the diagnosis and treatment of the disease or in related research.

It has become clear that tumors result from excessive cell proliferation and a corresponding reduction in cell death caused by the successive accumulation of mutations in key regulatory target genes over time. During the 1980s, a number of oncogenes were characterized, whereas from the 1990s to the present, the emp- sis has shifted to tumor suppressor genes (TSGs). It has become clear that oncogenes and TSGs function in the same pathways, providing positive and negative growth regulatory activities. The signaling pathways controlled by these genes involve virtually every process in cell biology, including nuclear events, cell cycle, cell death, cytoskeletal, cell membrane, angiogenesis, and cell adhesion effects. Mu- tions in tumor suppressor genes have been identified in familial cancer syndromes, and the same genes in many cases have been found to be mutationally inactivated in sporadically occurring cancers. In their normal state, TSGs control cancer development and progression, as well as contribute to the sensitivity of cancers to a variety of therapeutics. Understanding the classes of TSGs, the biochemical pa- ways they function in, and how they are regulated provides an essential lesson in cancer biology. We cannot hope to advance our current knowledge and to develop new and more effective therapies without understanding the relevant pathways and how they influence the present approaches to therapy. Moreover, it is important to be able to access not only the powerful tools now available to discover these genes, but also their links to cell biology and growth control.

Patients with advanced breast or prostate cancers usually develop bone metastases. The principal complications resulting from metastatic bone disease are pain, spinal cord compression, pathologic fractures and bone marrow suppression. Improving the management of bone metastases is crucial to quality of life for patients with breast and prostate cancer.

Advances in understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the pathophysiology of bone metastasis are driving the development of new therapeutic strategies.

The tiny microRNAs (miRNAs) can have huge impacts on the regulation of a variety of genes and play crucial roles in the fundamental cellular processes. Recent miRNA studies change the landscape of cancer genetics by scrutinizing the alterations of genome-wide miRNA expressions in most common cancers and their regulatory functions during the development of cancer. The connections between miRNAs and cancer are widespread enough to warrant more comprehensive investigations in the systems biology perspective. In MicroRNA and Cancer: Methods and Protocols, internationally renowned experts provide the latest miRNA knowledge, the various techniques and methodologies currently available for cancer research application. Ranging from the fundamental concepts to practical applications, this book presents: * Overview of microRNA biogenesis, computational prediction of new miRNAs in the cancer genome, and miRNA-based therapeutic approaches for cancer treatment * Detailed experimental protocols in miRNA detection with novel and high-throughput technology, miRNA library cloning, miRNA epigenetic regulation, and miRNA pathway study * Stepwise computational and bioinformatic procedures for miRNA complex networks in cancer genomes with a variety of softwares and programs * Cross-cited notes on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls Authoritative and cutting-edge, MicroRNA and Cancer: Methods and Protocols serves researchers with the basic principles of experimental and computational methods for microRNA study in cancer research and provides a firm grounding for those who wish to further develop their own applications and tailor them to their own specific research needs.

The concomitance of cancer and pregnancy is a biological paradox and one of the greatest challenges in the lives of young patients, their partners, and their families. It is also a challenge to oncologists, because the management of the pregnant cancer patient involves both mother and fetus. Ideally, oncologists, reproductive endocrinologists, obstetricians and neonatologists, nurses, and psychologists work within a dedicated multidisciplinary team to deliver optimal cancer therapy to the mother, while assuring fetal well-being.

This book, written by oncology experts with knowledge and clinical expertise on diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of women with different types of cancer during pregnancy, provides a comprehensive review of existing data on cancer during pregnancy and a general overview of its psychological, ethical, and social aspects. Chapters address the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of young women with specific solid or hematologic cancers during pregnancy. The safety of subsequent pregnancy after cancer treatments and the alternatives to maintain or enhance fertility in women undergoing cancer therapy are also addressed. While not intended as a practical guideline, the book contains clinical suggestions, bibliography, and references to available online sources about referral centers, ongoing clinical trials, and tumor registries to help oncologists in the clinic.

This volume provides a general overview of the therapeutic potential of the essential oils in cancer and highlights some promising future directions. It integrates chemistry, pharmacology, and medicine while discussing bioactive essential oils in experimental models and clinical studies of cancer. The book is a valuable resource for all engaged in the study of natural products and their synthetic derivatives, particularly for those interested in academic research and pharmaceutical and food industries dedicated in the discovery of useful agents for the therapy or prevention of cancer.

This vital collection provides a unique set of techniques to explore the clinical, pathological, and research aspects of the management of patients with esophageal adenocarcinoma. Beginning with an introduction to the basic features of esophageal adenocarcinoma, the book continues with clinical protocols for the management of the cancer, pathological methods for management of the patients and research, as well as protocols for molecular research, which could aid researchers in furthering our understanding of pathogenesis as well as in identifying new targets for the treatment and prevention of adenocarcinoma. Written for the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, chapters include introductions on their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Comprehensive and authoritative, Esophageal Adenocarcinoma: Methods and Protocols is a valuable guide to stimulate specialists from various disciplines in their continuing research into esophageal adenocarcinoma and translating that research into improving the management of this cancer of rising importance.

From humble beginnings over 25 years ago as a lipid kinase activity associated with certain oncoproteins, PI3K (phosphoinositide 3-kinase) has been catapulted to the forefront of drug development in cancer, immunity and thrombosis, with the first clinical trials of PI3K pathway inhibitors now in progress. Here we give a brief overview of some key discoveries in the PI3K area and their impact, and include thoughts on the current state of the field, and where it could go from here

Leading investigators and clinicians detail the different mechanisms used by tumors to escape and impair the immune system and then spell out possible clinical strategies to prevent or reverse tumor-induced immune dysfunction. The authors review the mechanisms of immune dysfunction and evasion mechanisms in histologically diverse human tumors, focusing on tumor-induced molecular defects in T cells and antigen-presenting cells (dendritic cells and tumors), that may serve as biomarkers for patient prognosis. They discuss the means by which these immune functions may be protected or restored in order to more effectively support the process of tumor rejection in situ. Cutting-edge techniques are outlined with the capacity to monitor the strength and quality of patients' immune responses using immunocytometry, MHC-peptide tetramers combined with apoptosis assay, ELISPOT assay, and detection of MHC-TAA peptide complexes on tumor cells.

Over the years of cancer investigation a lot of discoveries in this field were made, and many associations between various biological carcinogens and cancer were revealed. Some of them are credibly determined, thus these infectious agents (human papilloma virus, hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, Epstein-Barr virus, human herpes virus 8, human T-cell lymphotropic virus 1, human immunodeficiency virus, Merkel cell polyomavirus, Helicobacter pylori, Opisthorchis viverrini, Clonorchis sinensis, Schistosoma haematobium) are recognized as carcinogens and probable carcinogens by International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). The problem is of large importance, since share of infectious agents-related cancer cases is steadily increasing, reaching 25% according to certain estimates. It is worth noting that many of cancer cases are caused by infectious agents other than -conventional ones- like HPV, EBV, HBV, HCV, H.pylori etc. In recent years, a number of significant breakthroughs in the field were performed, such as the discovery of the microbiota role in cancer causation."

This volume summarizes recent advances in research on mesenchymal cell populations in the bone marrow. It explores how mesenchymal cells create niches for immune cells in extramedullary organs and it discusses new concepts of lympho-hematopoietic microenvironments. Readers are introduced to the fundamentals of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) differentiation to all types of blood cells, including immune cells, in the bone marrow. The book highlights how this process is supported and regulated by the individual microenvironments of stem cells, termed niches. The identity of HSC niches has been subject to longstanding debates. Recent studies identified the population of mesenchymal stem cells as the major cellular component of niches, for hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) and their candidate developmental origin. Furthermore, candidate cellular niches for immune cells in lymph nodes and adipose and connective tissues were identified. The authors of this volume focus on shared features between those and HSPC niche cells in the bone marrow. Covering latest research results, this book serves as fascinating read for researchers and clinicians in hematology and immunology.

During the last 20 years it has become increasingly clear that the tumor micro-environment, the tumor stroma with its cellular end extracellular components, plays an crucial role in regulating tumor growth and progression. This book on "Tumor-associated fibroblasts and their matrix" as part of the series on "Tumor-Microenvironment" is the first comprehensive discussion of these two main players of the tumor microenvironment. The best experts in this new area of tumor research and therapy review the role of these major components in the tumor stroma in the process of tumor development and progression. They discuss their interaction with other players such as blood vessels and immune cells, and show novel perspectives for tumor therapy. This compilation of excellent contributions of the best known experts in this important field in cancer research and therapy is a must for all scientists engaged in basic and clinical research. Increasing evidence of successful targeting of both cellular and matrix components in tumor therapy renders this book of particular interest for scientists engaged in pharmaceutical industry searching for new components for cancer therapy.

This work presents the most advanced discoveries from translational research laboratories directly involved in identifying molecules and signalling pathways that play an instrumental role in metastasis. In contrast to other works, conventionally focused on a single type of tumour, the various chapters in this book provide a broad perspective of the similarities and discrepancies among the dissemination of several solid malignancies. Through recurrent and overlapping references to molecular mechanisms and mediators, the readers will gain knowledge of the common ground in metastasis from a single source. Finally, an introductory chapter provides a clinical perspective of the problems presented by metastatic tumours for diagnosis and treatment. The work presented here is directed to researchers in tumour biology with a developing interest in metastatic dissemination as well as medical and graduate students seeking to expand and integrate the notions acquired in basic cancer biology and oncology courses.

This book represents an essential reference manual for all of the well-characterized leukemia-lymphoma cell lines currently available. It provides the most important facts, using the succinct and user-friendly format that has made the FactsBooks so popular with scientists and clinical researchers. Introductory chapters provide background and perspective for culturing malignant hematopoietic (blood forming) cell lines. These chapters are followed by over 400 comprehensive individual entries. Each cell line entry highlights essential clinical, immunological, genetic, and functional features and includes a comprehensive listing of references.
Key Features
* the full spectrum of malignant cell lines from all hematopoietic cell lineages
* sister cell lines and relevant subclones
* clinical data: patient, diagnosis, treatment status, and specimen source
* authentication of derivation and availability
* immunophenotype
* cytogenetic karyotype
* translocations and fusion genes
* receptor gene rearrangements and genetic alterations
* cell cultures aspects: establishment, medium, doubling time, growth
* cytochemical profile
* cytokine production and response to cytokines
* proto-oncogene and transcription factor expression/alteration
* functional features: differentiation induction, heterotransplantability
* special unique features
* key references

This textbook is unique in that it is the first European text for nurses practicing beyond the novice level in cancer nursing. Previously European cancer nurses have had to rely on North American texts, which are not always culturally transferable. The book presents a synthesis of important issues, which underpin the practice of advanced cancer nursing and are vital to experiencedpractitioners in moving cancer nursing forward. The central concerns of the book reflect the emerging roles of the advanced specialist practitioner and include advanced practice, education, management and research. The text is written by recognised cancernursing experts from throughout Europe who collectively are involved in shaping the future of cancer nursing across the continent.Unique collection of authors from Europe who are recognised for their respective roles in shaping the future of cancer nursing Key text for those engaging in postgraduate studies on practicing at an advanced level.Explores the different domains of advanced practice in cancer nursing which are necessary to move the specialty forward Unique European text for cancer nurses wishing to develop expert knowledgeBased on current research data Produced under the auspices of EONS

Genetic susceptibility refers to how variations in a person 's genes increase or decrease his or her susceptibility to environmental factors, such as chemicals, radiation and lifestyle (diet and smoking). This volume will explore the latest findings in the area of genetic susceptibility to gastrointestinal cancers, focusing on molecular epidemiology, DNA repair, and gene-environment interactions to identify factors that affect the incidence of GI cancers. Topics will include germline susceptibility, including Mendelian patterns of inheritance and gene-environment interactions that lead to cancer etiology.

Hematopathology: Genomic Mechanisms of Neoplastic Diseases will keep physicians abreast of the rapid and complex changes in genomic medicine, as exemplified by the molecular pathology of hematologic malignancies. This timely volume will update physicians on the complexities of genomic lesions, as well as offer an integrated framework encompassing molecular diagnosis, the new WHO classification of hematologic neoplasms with focus on molecular pathology, prognostic value of molecular tests, and molecular monitoring of response to gene-targeted therapy. As such, it will be of great value to hematologists, oncologists, pathologists, internal medicine and pediatric specialists, as well as bioscientific staff and laboratorians in private hospitals and academic institutions.

Gene expression studies have revealed diagnostic profiles and upregulation of specific pathways in many solid tumors. The explosion of new information in gene expression profiling could potentially lead to the development of tailored treatments in many solid tumors. In addition many studies are ongoing to validate these signatures also in predicting response to hormonal, chemotherapeutic and targeted agents in breast cancer as well as in other tumors. Diagnostic, Prognostic and Therapeutic Value of Gene Signatures provides readers a useful and comprehensive resource about the range of applications of microarray technology in oncological diseases. Topics covered include gene signatures and soft tissue sarcomas, prognostic relevance of breast cancer signatures, gene expression profiling of colorectal cancer and liver metastasis, gene signatures in GISTs, CNVs and gene expression profiles in pancreatic cancer, and gene signatures in head/neck, lung and gastric tumors. Diagnostic, Prognostic and Therapeutic Value of Gene Signatures will be of great value to residents and fellows, physicians, pathologists and medical oncologists.