This volume provides a thorough overview of the Wilms' Tumour Gene (WT1). The book begins with three review chapters that cover the involvement of WT1 in pediatric cancer, kidney disease, and tissue development and homeostasis. The next few chapters discuss cell marking and lineage tracing, epicardial cell methodology, colony forming assays for bone marrow stem cells, angiogenesis assays and zebrafish tools. The next group of chapters explores the latest tools in genomics, molecular biology, and biochemistry. They discuss dissecting transcription factor function in cell free systems, ChiP seq, proteomics, RNA interactome, and multiphoton imaging of lipids, measuring the binding constants of protein-nucleic acid interactions, and bioinformatics approaches for analyzing Next Generation Sequence data. The final chapter discusses protocols for clinical trials for immune therapy using anti-WT1 peptides. 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. Practical and thorough, The Wilms' Tumour (WT1) Gene: Methods and Protocols is a valuable resource for anyone who is interested in the diverse methodologies used in WT1 research.

Cancer care is undergoing a radical transformation as novel technologies are directed toward new treatments and personalized medicine. The most dramatic advances in the treatment of cancer have come from therapeutics that augment the immune response to tumors. The immune checkpoint inhibitors are the best-known and most highly advanced examples of Immune Therapeutics targeting tumor cells and include approved antibody drugs directed at the cell surface proteins CTLA4 and PD-1. These are now considered foundational treatments for several solid tumor indications, and that list of indications is growing quickly. More broadly, antibodies have become workhorse molecules across the entire immunotherapy landscape. Antibodies to novel targets modulate the activity of diverse immune cell regulatory proteins. Engineered antibodies can induce tumor cell death or expose tumor cells to poisonous toxins (ADCC and ADC, respectively). Bi-specific antibodies can engage multiple tumor targets simultaneously, or can redirect lymphocytes to attack tumor cells. The antigen-binding domains within antibodies can be spliced onto cell stimulatory domains and transduced into T cells or NK cells, creating remarkable tumor-specific cellular therapeutics (CAR-T, CAR-NK). Beyond antibody-based therapies there are highly diverse and differentiated technology tool kits being applied to immunotherapy. Small molecule drugs are being developed to attack the tumor microenvironment, novel tumor vaccine approaches are showing great promise, patient lymphocytes are being isolated, expanded and reintroduced to patients, gene-editing techniques are becoming widely deployed, and a vast number of new tumor targets, and mutated tumor proteins (neoantigens), are being discovered. The past decade has seen unprecedented success in the treatment of diverse cancers. The authors of this volume have been asked to not only review progress to date, but importantly, to look ahead, and anticipate the evolution of cancer treatment across diverse Immune Therapeutic approaches. Our hypothesis is that the advances we are seeing across the immunotherapy landscape will further evolve and synergize, leading us finally to outright cures for many cancers.

This book provides readers an extensive overview of recent progress in basic and clinical research on cancer immunotherapy. Thanks to rapid advances in molecular biology and immunology, it has become increasingly evident that cancer growth is influenced by host immune responses. With the success of a number of clinical trials, immunotherapy has become a promising treatment modality of cancer. This book covers five major topics, including monoclonal antibodies, biological response modifiers, cancer vaccines, adoptive cellular therapy and oncolytic viruses. It also examines the combination of different immune strategies as well as the combination of immunotherapy with other treatments to increase anti-tumor effects. Through the comprehensive discussion of the topic, the book sheds valuable new light on the treatment of tumors.

This thesis offers an accessible guide to biomedical phase-contrast imaging with over 20 radiographic illustrations. It focuses on research to improve radiography, and particularly mammography applications, by using a novel X-ray imaging modality that exploits the wave-nature of X-rays, rather than just their absorption in tissue. Further, it explores a broad range of potential applications - from the assessment of breast cancer and the evaluation of microcalcification clusters, to the examination of renal stones. X-ray imaging is an indispensable tool in modern medical diagnostics, and ranges from simple radiography applications to advanced CT imaging protocols. This novel phase-contrast approach has the potential to deliver significantly improved diagnostic information, also and especially in cases where mammography is used for screening purposes. The thesis is based on several studies conducted by the author - working in close interdisciplinary cooperation with medical doctors at two university clinics in Munich - and successfully demonstrates this diagnostic potential in pre-clinical experiments.

This volume covers the topics presented at the 3rd International Conference on Tumor Microenvironment and Cellular Stress by an international community of researchers. The conference brings together scientists to discuss different cellular and animal models of tumor microenvironment study and identify common pathways that are candidates for therapeutic intervention; stimulate collaboration between groups that are more focused on elucidation of biochemical aspects of stress biology (e.g., HIF regulation) and groups that study the pathophysiological aspects of stress pathways or engaged in drug discovery; and critically evaluate novel targets for imaging or therapeutic intervention that would be of use to the tumor microenvironment community and pharmaceutical industry.

This book highlights the role of the Translationally Controlled Tumor Protein (TCTP) in cell signaling, cell fate and the resulting connection to disease development. It begins by discussing the structure/function of TCTP, before exploring its role in different species ranging from plants to Drosophila and covering fields such as development, the cytoskeleton, cell division, DNA fragility and apoptosis. In turn, the book's final section is devoted to the role of TCTP in disease, namely asthma and diverse cancers, and ultimately as a target for the treatment of malignancies. What is the common denominator between all these processes and why is TCTP necessary in order for them to occur, even in the worst case such as cancer? The book seeks to provide meaningful answers to this and other key questions. Presenting a broad and revealing view on the topic, it offers an informative guide for scientists and students alike.

This volume explores the epigenetic alterations and their association with various human cancers. Considering one of human cancer as an example, individual chapters are focused on defining the role of epigenetic regulators and underlying mechanisms in cancer growth and progression. Epigenetic alteration including DNA methylation, histone modification, nucleosome positioning and non-coding RNAs expression are involved in a complex network of regulating expression of oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes and constitute an important event of the multistep process of carcinogenesis. Recent advances in the understanding of the epigenetic regulation and detailed information of these epigenetic changes in various cancers provide new avenues of advancements in diagnostics, prognostics, and therapies of this highly fatal disease.

This volume presents methods and protocols on modern analysis of steroid receptor and prostate cancer function. Chapters detail androgen, androgen receptor action, anti-androgen enzalutamide, in vitro and in vivo models, imaging, gene fusions, and help facilitate studies with novel drugs including anti-androgens and chemotherapeutics. 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. Authoritative and cutting-edge, Prostate Cancer: Methods and Protocols aims to provide easily reproducible techniques.

This volume focuses on defining the unique attributes of using the zebrafish cancer model for discovering important pathways and potential drug targets for the treatment of human cancers. Using the zebrafish model, the volume explores oncogene and tumor suppressor discovery, chemical genetic approaches, genomics, epigenetics, cancer imaging, and cell transplantation. Contributed chapters come from the most prominent laboratories working in this field, which provides a unique perspective on zebrafish models from a wide spectrum of the research community. In addition, the book offers a detailed analysis of the most current research in the area for specific zebrafish cancer models, including T cell leukemia, rhabdomyosarcoma, liver and pancreatic cancer, melanoma, neuroblastoma, germ cell tumors, and malignant peripheral sheath tumors. A chapter is also dedicated to the development and utilization of other piscine models of cancer. The compilation of chapters in the volume culminates into a comprehensive and definitive text on zebrafish and cancer, providing a much needed resource on the powerful attributes of the zebrafish model system.

This volume provides a thorough guide of the study of multiple myeloma (MM)-from sample acquisition to the performance of molecular tests, and also discusses difficulties that arise during quality control and interpretation of results. The chapters in this book cover topics, such as next-generation-flow-based methods for detection of minimal residual disease and circulating tumor cells; Cytometry by Time-of-Flights (CyTOF); a droplet digital PCR approach for finding contamination in patients' samples; genome-wide investigation of the methylation and hydroxymethylation status of cytosines; and a microfluidic approach for creating nanoparticles. 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 comprehensive, Multiple Myeloma: Methods and Protocols is a valuable resource for molecular scientists and laboratory supervisors working with MM samples, and any investigator conducting studies in this field.

This volume provides insight into the pivotal roles of stem cells, exosomes and other microvesicles in biofunction and molecular mechanisms and their therapeutic potential in translational nanomedicine. It further highlights evidence from recent studies as to how stem cell derived exosomes and microRNAs may restore and maintain tissue homeostasis, enable cells to recover critical cellular functions and begin repair regeneration. These early studies in animal models of aging also show evidence of improved immune, cardiovascular and cognitive functions as well as improved health span and life span. The use of exosomes from body fluids to define specific biomarkers for various tumors may also clear the path to patient-targeted treatments by developing exosome-derived microRNA based cancer therapeutics. It is essential reading for graduate students, research fellow and biomedical researchers in academia or the pharmaceutical or biotech industries.

This book focuses on the analysis of cancer dynamics and the mathematically based synthesis of anticancer therapy. It summarizes the current state-of-the-art in this field and clarifies common misconceptions about mathematical modeling in cancer. Additionally, it encourages closer cooperation between engineers, physicians and mathematicians by showing the clear benefits of this without stating unrealistic goals. Development of therapy protocols is realized from an engineering point of view, such as the search for a solution to a specific control-optimization problem. Since in the case of cancer patients, consecutive measurements providing information about the current state of the disease are not available, the control laws are derived for an open loop structure. Different forms of therapy are incorporated into the models, from chemotherapy and antiangiogenic therapy to immunotherapy and gene therapy, but the class of models introduced is broad enough to incorporate other forms of therapy as well. The book begins with an analysis of cell cycle control, moving on to control effects on cell population and structured models and finally the signaling pathways involved in carcinogenesis and their influence on therapy outcome. It also discusses the incorporation of intracellular processes using signaling pathway models, since the successful treatment of cancer based on analysis of intracellular processes, might soon be a reality. It brings together various aspects of modeling anticancer therapies, which until now have been distributed over a wide range of literature. Written for researchers and graduate students interested in the use of mathematical and engineering tools in biomedicine with special emphasis on applications in cancer diagnosis and treatment, this self-contained book can be easily understood with only a minimal basic knowledge of control and system engineering methods as well as the biology of cancer. Its interdisciplinary character and the authors' extensive experience in cooperating with clinicians and biologists make it interesting reading for researchers from control and system engineering looking for applications of their knowledge. Systems and molecular biologists as well as clinicians will also find new inspiration for their research.

This book discusses the molecular, biological, pathological, and clinical aspects of melanoma, with special emphasis in the new concepts of melanoma genetics. A multidisciplinary group of experts in Genetics, Dermatology, Pathology, and Melanoma Medical Oncology contribute state-of-the-art knowledge in melanoma research and clinical management, not only exposing the current status of knowledge of the topics but also providing their personal experiences and ideas about the future and potential practical application of the genetic aspects of melanoma. During the last few years we have witnessed an impressive amount of discoveries in the field of melanoma genetics which have changed our approach in understanding the pathogenesis and treatment of this lethal disease. Genetics of Melanoma is a practical approach to melanoma genetic mechanisms and their application in the diagnosis and treatment of this malignancy. It is an essential source of updated information and a powerful tool for clinicians, pathologists, and basic scientists who wish to understand, apply, and investigate the multiple new aspects of melanoma genetics.

This detailed volume gathers a comprehensive collection of methods, protocols, and procedures used for the identification, characterization, and selection of cancer stem cells. These include surface marker expression, side population, spheres formation, ALDH activity, and numerous others. Written for the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible protocols, and expert tips and troubleshooting advice to avoid potential pitfalls. Comprehensive and practical, Cancer Stem Cells: Methods and Protocols provides researchers with the techniques they will need in order to pursue vital research into this complex field of study.

This book provides information on a wide variety of issues ranging from genetics to clinical description of the syndromes, genetic testing and counseling, and clinical management including surveillance, surgical and prophylactic interventions, and chemoprevention. Moreover, current hot issues, such as the identification of novel causal genes and the challenges we face, and the relevance of cancer risk modifiers, both genetic and environmental, are also discussed. This reference book is great for geneticists, oncologists, genetic counselors, researchers, clinicians, surgeons and nurses dedicated to, or interested in, hereditary cancer. The best and most recognized experts in the field have contributed to this project, guaranteeing updated information, accuracy and the discussion of topical issues.

This volume collects a variety of techniques and methodologies developed to facilitate research on integrin biology and to identify ideal targets and approaches for the treatment of multiple organ diseases, with a focus on cancer in particular. The chapters consecutively describe the tools for structural analysis, identification and detection of integrins as biomarkers, and include thorough laboratory and clinically-related methods on different strategies for generation, synthesis and evaluation of probes, carriers, peptides or small particles for integrin targeting, imaging, and drug delivery. As part of the Methods in Pharmacology and Toxicology series, this book contains the practical details that are invaluable in the laboratory. Authoritative and advantageous, Integrin Targeting Systems for Tumor Diagnosis and Therapy serves readers from a wide spectrum, including researchers and students seeking an overview of existing developments, as well as leading professionals aiming to become more familiar with integrin-related innovative technologies in cancer research.

This multidisciplinary reference explores the concepts and realities of quality of life among cancer survivors in its physical, psychological, cognitive, social, and familial dimensions. Informed by a broad range of fields including genetics, psychiatry, nursing, dentistry, rehabilitation, and ethics, it addresses daily challenges of living for this population, from self-care to cultural concerns and from social interactions to experiences with providers. Family issues of pediatric, young adult, and elder survivors, caregiving parents, and siblings are a major area of concern. And contributors describe interventions for survivors as individuals, in family content, and as part of integrated care across primary and specialty settings. Included among the topics: Play, leisure activities, and cognitive health among older cancer survivors. Genetic mutations in cancer susceptibility genes: a family history of cancer. Cancer patients in a pediatric intensive care unit: a single center experience. The impact of childhood cancer on the quality of life among healthy siblings. When cancer returns: family caregivers and the hospice team. Experiencing cancer services: a story of survival and dissatisfaction. A significant addition to the cancer survivorship literature, Quality of Life Among Cancer Survivors is a practice-building resource for oncology and allied health professionals, health psychologists, and social workers, as well as researchers in these fields.

This volume, in discussing resistance to ibritumomab, will focus on the mechanism, hematological aspects, radiological and nuclear medicine aspects, and medical physics that deal with radiation dosimetry, and will outline future prospects for overcoming resistance and enhancing efficacy of ibritumomab.

The high rate of urbanization and a steady increase in per capita income has improved the socio-economic status of people all over the world. This has resulted in drastic changes in their lifestyle and food consumption patterns, where traditional foods are being replaced with more ready-made junk foods with few servings of fresh vegetables and fruits. It has been postulated that industrialization has caused change in food choice, dietary pattern modification and resulted in a sedentary lifestyle. In addition, contaminated foods with unsafe microbes and chemical hazards are increasing. All of these events have resulted in an increased risk of cancer, the leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. This book will provide a basic understanding of cancer, its risk factors, preventive measures, and possible treatments currently available, as well as identifying the different dietary factors that might synergize with a sedentary lifestyle in the etiology of cancer, and its prevention measure.

This volume will describe both growth-inhibitory and mucin-depleting effects of bromelain and N-acetylcysteine, on their own or in combination, in cancer. It will coherently review the pathophysiological aspects of the mucin glycoproteins in malignancies and provide an updated account of the status of bromelain and N-acetylcysteine in cancer therapy. The volume will develop the idea of using these two drugs as a combination formulation for mucin-depleting effects.

This thesis focuses on the development of gold- and non-classical platinum-based anti-cancer agents that display distinctively different anti-cancer mechanisms compared to the commonly used cisplatin. These metal complexes contain N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligands which are able to form strong M-C(NHC) bonds, conferring high stability and favorable lipophilicity, reactivity and binding specificity of metal complexes on biomolecules. The author demonstrates significant advances made in anti-cancer gold(III), gold(I) and platinum(II) complexes. Detailed chemical synthesis, in vitro and/or in vivo anti-cancer activities are clearly presented including: (i) a class of Au(III) complexes containing a highly fluorescent N^N^N ligand and NHC ligand that simultaneously act as fluorescent thiol "switch-on" probes and anti-cancer agents; (ii) a dinuclear gold(I) complex with a mixed diphosphine and bis(NHC) ligand displaying favorable stability and showing significant inhibition of tumor growth in two independent mice models with no observable side effects; and (iii) a panel of stable luminescent cyclometalated platinum(II) complexes exhibiting high specificity to localize to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) domain, inducing ER stress and cell apoptosis. These works highlight the clinical potential that gold and platinum complexes offer for cancer treatment.

This book is about "Angiogenesis". A process in which new vasculature is formed from pre-existing capillaries. Angiogenesis process is associated with the proliferation and growth of both physiologically normal and neoplastic tissues, through the formation of vascular supply, essential for delivering growth requirements such as oxygen and nutrients. The book describes more than 100 genes and their key regulatory functions in the context of normal healthy condition, disease and malignancy, cancer proliferation and progression. New insights into the role of angiogenesis and the therapeutic inhibition of its regulators are investigated, due to the great potential for exploitation in the development of a novel treatment for cancer. New scientists, junior researchers and biomedical science students will find this book an invaluable introductory reference to their insight about angiogenesis and angiogenic role of more than 100 angiogenes and their role in healthy, disease and malignant conditions.

The volume will serve as a primer on tyrosine kinase signaling and its importance in cancer. The volume will first introduce the common denominators of small-molecule and antibody-derived inhibitors, as well as the general phenomenon of resistance. The volume will then detail resistance to the most commonly used classes of tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and will focus specific chapters on resistance to BCR-ABL1, FLT3, angiokinase family members, and ALK inhibitors.

This volume focuses on the roles of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in contexts ranging from human cancers to cardiovascular disease and ageing. The role of lncRNAs in X-inactivation and those lncRNAs derived from pseudogenes, past retroelements integrated within the human genome, as well as the role these pseudogene-derived lncRNAs play in cancer development are discussed in detail. Further, the book examines the function of lncRNAs in diseases such as diabetes, in smooth muscle formation, and in the modulation of nuclear receptors, as well as in connection with perspectives on the development of personalized therapeutics. It offers an appealing and insightful resource for scientists and clinicians alike.

This is the first book to provide a broad framework for obtaining an in depth understanding of the state-of-the-art knowledge on abnormalities of non-coding RNAs found to be associated with colorectal cancer pathogenesis. Readers will discover possible mechanisms underlying the substantial roles played by non-coding RNAs in molecular hallmarks of colorectal cancer. This work further provides the comprehensive overview and novel insights into using of non-coding RNAs as colorectal cancer biomarkers enabling early detection of the disease, prognostic stratification of the patients and prediction of therapeutic response. The reader is introduced to the overview of modern non-coding RNAs-based therapeutic strategies, and summary of their preclinical testing performed in colorectal cancer. The work is written for researchers who want to explore current state of the knowledge in this interesting field of molecular oncology.