The book describes most of the methods that are currently used in metastasis research. Both "in vivo" and "in vitro" protocols are illustrated, so that the metastatic process can be either analysed as a whole, or single events addressed separately. Each method is described in the frame of the metastatic process, therefore its significance and its limitations in the context of metastasis are always taken into account. Whenever possible, several alternative procedures are reported per each experimental issue, so that the researcher can choose the one that better suits her/his needs and possibilities.
During the past 30 years a big effort has been made to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of cancer metastatis, the leading cause of death for cancer patients. A considerable number of assays have been set up, that can be used to address specific questions concerning the single metastatic steps, or can be applied to develop and test drugs specifically interfering with selected events during the metastatic spread. This book contains an exhaustive description of most of the methods and their rationale, that are currently used in metastatic research, both to analyse metastasis in its entirety (in vivo models), or to dissect the single steps of the metastatic process (in vitro assays).

This volume explores the latest techniques used to study tumor immunology. The chapters in this book detail methodologies for functional analysis and expansion of T lymphocytes for cancer research. The chapters also cover topics such as how single-cell RNA-sequencing can be exploited to dissect immune cell heterogeneity and precursors; isolating and expanding natural killer (NK) cells; evaluating NK cell-mediated anti-tumor killing activity in vitro; immunosurveillance orchestrated by specific immune subsets; use of HLA peptidomics for cancer-exome based identification of tumor neo-antigens; gold standard assessment of immunogenic cell death in oncological mouse models and methods to look at the therapeutic relevance of immune modulation in cancer. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Cutting-edge and thorough, Cancer Immunosurveillance: Methods and Protocols is a valuable resource to aid researchers in better understanding and experimenting in this exciting and developing field.

This volume explores the role of proteases in various catalytic classes and cellular processes associated with cancer. The chapters in this book cover topics such as encoding proteolytic enzymes, cleavage sites of proteases, functional catalytic domains of MMPs, zymography, angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis, genetic and epigenetic alterations of metallopeptidases, and methods to target metalloproteinases. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Comprehensive and cutting edge, Proteases and Cancer: Methods and Protocols is a valuable resource for clinical researchers across numerous fields such as molecular and cellular biology, oncology, biochemistry, and chemistry. This book is also useful for PhD students in the various disciples of health sciences.

This thesis describes the authors' pioneering efforts in the conceptualization and implementation of combined platinum-based immuno-chemotherapeutics, which represent a significant paradigm shift from the conventional approach of directly targeting cancer. The work described has opened up a rich and largely unexplored area for platinum-based drug design, and ultimately paves the way for superior immuno-chemotherapeutics with better clinical outcome for patients. Historically, the contribution of the immune system to chemotherapy outcomes has been neglected, as anticancer drugs were believed to be immunosuppressive. However, this has been challenged by contemporary evidence suggesting that many chemotherapeutics, including platinum-based agents, stimulate the innate and/or adaptive immune system and that these "secret allies" contribute tangibly to clinical outcomes. A multi-pronged immuno-chemotherapeutic approach not only shrinks tumors, but more importantly, reactivate dormant immune responses to malignancies, eliminating residual cancer cells.

Over a period of almost 10 years, the work of the Project on Death in America (PDIA) played a formative role in the advancement of end of life care in the United States. The project concerned itself with adults and children, and with interests crossing boundaries between the clinical disciplines, the social sciences, arts and humanities. PDIA engaged with the problems of resources in poor communities and marginalized groups and settings, and it attempted to foster collaboration across a range of sectors and organizations. Authored by medical sociologist David Clark, whose research career has focused on mapping, archiving and analyzing the history and development of hospice, palliative care and related end of life issues, this book examines the broad, ambitious conception of PDIA - which sought to 'transform the culture of dying in America' - and assesses PDIA's contribution to the development of the palliative care field and to wider debates about end of life care within American society. Chapters consider key issues and topics tackled by PDIA grantees which include: explorations of the meanings of death in contemporary American culture; the varying experiences of care at the end of life (in different settings, among different social and ethnic groups); the innovations in service development and clinical practice that have occurred in the US in response to a growing awareness of and debate about end of life issues; the emerging evidence base for palliative and end of life care in the US; the maturation of a field of academic and clinical specialization; the policy and legal issues that have shaped development, including the ethical debate about assisted suicide and the Oregon experience; the opportunities and barriers that have been encountered; and the prospects for future development. A final chapter captures developments and milestones in the field since PDIA closed in 2003, and some of the challenges going forward.

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

Lung cancer is the neoplastic disease with the highest mortality numbers in the world. The disease is very common in industrialized countries. This textbook synthesizes the basic science of lung cancer with state-of-the-art accounts of diagnosis and treatment. Written by a distinguished panel of experts from Europe, Asia, and North America, it covers all of the most important fields: biology, pathology, epidemiology, screening, diagnosis, therapy, supportive care, and prognosis. All physicians caring for patients with lung cancer, especially surgeons, chest physicians, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists, will find a wealth of information that meets their needs. Whenever possible, the principles of evidence-based medicine are followed by providing data from systematic reviews, meta-analyses, methodology-based guidelines, and randomized clinical trials.

Targeting Cell Survival Pathways to Enhance Response to Chemotherapy encompasses recently developed molecular targeting agents and approaches that suppress cell survival signaling. Cell survival signaling attenuates the effectiveness of conventional chemotherapy and numerous mechanisms have been described, and continue to be described, which contribute to cell survival in the face of chemotherapy treatment. Key pathways leading to chemoresistance emanate from growth factor receptors, PI3K, STAT3, anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family members, autophagy, and the DNA damage response pathway. New advances have underscored the potential of targeting each of these cell survival mechanisms to improve responsiveness to chemotherapy. This book reviews these recent advances and provides a foundational background and hints of new opportunities for basic, translational, and clinical investigators focused on improving therapeutic responses to chemotherapy.

This thesis describes the design, development, characterisation and clinical translation of three novel devices for optical endoscopic imaging. Over the past decade, rapid innovation in optics and photonics has led to the availability of low-cost and high-performance optical technologies that can be exploited for biomedical applications, but relatively few have been translated into clinic. The work presented outlines for the first time, a comprehensive analysis of the common barriers and unique challenges associated with the translation of optical imaging techniques. To assist developers streamline translation of optical imaging devices in future, a roadmap to clinical translation is outlined, and key translational characteristics are defined. Guided by these, subsequent development of endoscopic devices resulted in preparation and approval of endoscopes for first in human trials in the oesophagus, for early detection of cancer, and in the brain, for delineation of tumour during surgical resection. The thesis culminates in the presentation of results from the first in human use of a compact multispectral endoscope for imaging endogenous tissue contrast in the oesophagus. With continuation of the work as outlined at the end of this thesis, the novel techniques described have the potential to improve the standard of care in their respective indications.

Get a quick, expert overview of the many key facets of lung cancer evaluation and management with this concise, practical resource by Drs. Lynn T. Tanoue and Frank Detterbeck. This easy-to-read reference presents a summary of today's best evidence-based approaches to diagnosis and management in this critical area.

Get a quick, expert overview of clinically-focused topics and guidelines that are relevant to testing for HER2, which contributes to approximately 25% of breast cancers today. This concise resource by Drs. Sara Hurvitz, and Kelly McCann consolidates today's available information on this growing topic into one convenient resource, making it an ideal, easy-to-digest reference for practicing and trainee oncologists. Covers the diagnosis, treatments and targeted therapies, and management of breast cancers that are HER2-positive. Contains sections on background and testing, advanced disease, therapeutics, and toxicity considerations. Includes a timely section on innovative future therapies.

Advances in Cancer Research provides invaluable information on the exciting and fast-moving field of cancer research. Here once again, outstanding and original reviews are presented.
Key Features
* New Paradigms for the Treatment of Cancer: The Role of Anti-aiogenesis Agents
* The Hepatocyte Growth Factor/Met Pathway in Development, Tumorigenesis, and B-Cell Differentiation
* Clinical Targets for Anti-metastasis Therapy
* Animal Models of Melanoma: Recent Advances and Future Prospects
* The Indispensable Role of Microenvironment in the Natural History of Low-Grade B-Cell Neoplasms
* Epstein-Barr Virus Latency: LMP2, a Regulator or Means for Epstein-Barr Birus
* Biochemistry and Pathological Importance of Mucin-Associated Antigens in Gastrointenstinal Neoplasia
* Studies on Polyomavirus Persistence and Polyomavirus-Induced Tumor Development in Relation to the Immune System

Of the two disciplines in parallel development for two decades, tumor immunology and transplantation immunology, the latter has thrived and has led to some of the most critical discoveries in immunobiology. The former continues to thwart both scientists and clinicians alike.
The goal of immunologists in modern day research is to develop a simple and effective means to manipulate cancer "in vivo, " possibly encompassing several venues: identifying a phenotypic marker and the use of either active or passive immunization; include the use of passive reagents carrying "warheads" to selectively destroy cancer cells; or altering the basic process of cell survival.
This excellent multidiscipline-authored volume presents a theme which has not been well described before. The papers include both basic and clinical science and range from sophisticated molecular biology to little more than phenomenology (e.g. the increased association of cancer in some autoimmune diseases and increased presentation of autoimmune phenomena in malignant condition). This, however, is state-of-the-art.
This collection of themes will be of use not only to bench scientists, but also to clinicians who treat patients. The book represents progress at the cutting edge of this discipline, and points the way to further developments in the "black box" of immunology.

This issue of Hematology/Oncology Clinics, edited by Dr. Janet Abrahm, focuses on Pain Control. Topics include, but are not limited to, Complex pain assessment; Evidence-based non-pharmacologic therapies; Non-opioid pharmacologic therapies; Opioid caveats, newer agents, and prevention/management of side effects and of aberrant use; Cancer pain syndromes; Agents for neuropathic pain RX; Mechanism of and Adjuvants for bone pain; Interventional anesthetic methods; Radiation therapy methods; Rehabilitation methods; Psychological treatment; Spiritual considerations; Pain in patients with SS diseases; and Pain in HSCT patients.

Advances in Cancer Research, Volume 139, provides invaluable information on the exciting and fast-moving field of cancer research. Original reviews are presented on a variety of topics relating to the rapidly developing intersection between nanotechnology and cancer research, with unique sections in the new release focusing on Exosomes as a theranostic for lung cancer, Nanotechnology and cancer immunotherapy, Ultrasound imaging agents and delivery systems, Dendronized systems for the delivery of chemotherapeutics, Thermosensitive liposomes for image-guided drug delivery, Supramolecular Chemistry in Tumor Analysis and Drug Delivery, Gold nanoparticles for delivery of cancer therapeutics, and Single cell barcode microchip for cancer research and therapy.

Advances in Cancer Research provides invaluable information on the exciting and fast-moving field of cancer research. Here once again, outstanding and original reviews are presented.
Key Features
* The Yin Yang of TCF/b-Catenin Signalling
* Biochemical and Clinical Implications of the Erb/HER Signaling Network of Growth Factor Receptors
* p53 and Human Cancer: The First Ten Thousand Mutations
* Macrophage Stimulating Protein
* CD44 Glycoproteins in Colorectal Cancer; Expression; Function; and Prognostic Value
* A Simple Modes for Carcinogenesis of Colorectal Cancer with Microsatellite Instability

This issue of PET Clinics focuses on Lung Cancer, and is edited by Drs. Gang Cheng and Timothy Akhurst. Articles will include: FDG PET/CT for lung cancer staging; Lung neoplasms with low FDG avidity; FDG PET/CT evaluation of lung cancer in populations with high prevalence of granulomatous disease; Prognostic value of FDG PET/CT; Genomic characterization of lung cancer and its impact on the use and timing of PET in therapeutic response assessment; Treatment planning for radiation therapy; Future directions of PET imaging for lung cancer; PET for RT-planning in lung cancer; Genomic characterization of lung cancer and its impact on the use and timing of PET in therapeutic response assessment; and more!

This volume evaluates the clinical patterns of resistance to sorafenib, the impact of trial design in the second-line setting and the current gold standard to define radiological resistance; describes the molecular mechanisms responsible for treatment resistance in HCC patients, including components of the immune system and tumor microenvironment; determines the role of the cancer stem cell phenotype in resistance; reviews the experimental models to study resistance; and addresses new approaches to overcome resistance to sorafenib, using successful examples from other malignancies.

This issue of PET Clinics focuses on Gynecologic Oncology, and is edited by Drs. Drew Torigian and Domenico Rubello. Articles will include: The role of CT and MRI in gynecologic oncology; The utility of ultrasonography in gynecologic oncology; FDG-PET assessment of cervical cancer; FDG-PET assessment of ovarian cancer; FDG-PET assessment of other gynecologic cancers; The role of PET imaging in gynecologic radiation oncology; The utility of non-FDG PET in gynecologic oncology; Normal variants and pitfalls encountered in PET assessment of gynecologic malignancies; The role and future of quantitative imaging assessment in gynecologic oncology; Emerging molecular imaging techniques in gynecologic oncology; and more!

Volume 76 of Advances in Cancer Research continues the series' goal of publishing timely and authoritative reviews in the broad field of cancer research. Ruoslahti begins the volume with a review of fibronectin and its integrin receptors in cancer. Chapter 2 by Ganter and Lipsick discusses Myb and oncogenesis. Biscardi and colleagues present their research on c-Src, receptor tyrosine kinases, and human cancer in Chapter 3. Chapter 4 by Schulz covers epidemiology of Kaposi's sarcoma and associated herpesvirus/human herpesvirus 8. The consensus on synergism between cigarette smoke and other environmental carcinogens in the causation of lung cancer is reviewed by Reif and Heeren in Chapter 5. In Chapter 6, Breivik and Gaudernack discuss perspectives on carcinogenesis and natural selection in the genetics and epigenetics of colorectal cancer. Chapter 7 by Coulie and co-workers concludes the volume with a discussion of anti-tumor immunity at work in a melanoma patient.