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Advances in Cancer Biology - Metastasis: A Journey Through the Labyrinth
Author: Dr. Evelyn Reed, PhD, Associate Professor of Oncology, Harvard Medical School
Publisher: Elsevier, a leading publisher of scientific and medical literature.
Editor: Dr. Marcus Chen, MD, PhD, Chief Editor, Journal of Clinical Oncology, renowned expert in cancer therapeutics.
Introduction:
The relentless march of cancer often culminates in metastasis, the insidious spread of malignant cells to distant organs. This process, once considered a largely insurmountable barrier to effective cancer treatment, is now becoming increasingly understood thanks to breathtaking advances in cancer biology - metastasis. My journey into this field, spanning over two decades, has been marked by both profound breakthroughs and humbling setbacks, shaping my understanding of the complexities involved and the hope we now hold for patients facing this devastating disease.
Understanding the Labyrinth: The Mechanisms of Metastasis
Metastasis is a multi-step process, a carefully choreographed dance of cellular invasion, intravasation (entry into the bloodstream), survival in circulation, extravasation (exit from the bloodstream), and colonization of distant sites. Advances in cancer biology - metastasis have illuminated these intricate steps with unprecedented detail. We've moved beyond simply observing the phenomenon to uncovering the molecular drivers, the signaling pathways, and the genetic mutations that dictate a cancer's metastatic potential. For instance, the discovery of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) – a process where cancer cells lose their epithelial characteristics and acquire mesenchymal traits enabling them to migrate – represents a major advance in cancer biology - metastasis. We now understand how specific transcription factors and signaling pathways regulate EMT, paving the way for targeted therapies.
Case Study 1: The Unpredictable Journey of Mrs. A
One patient who vividly illustrated the unpredictability of metastasis was Mrs. A, a 62-year-old woman diagnosed with stage II breast cancer. Initially, her prognosis appeared promising. However, despite aggressive adjuvant therapy, she developed distant metastases to her bones three years later. This case highlights the limitations of current treatments and the crucial need for continued advances in cancer biology - metastasis. While her case was heartbreaking, the detailed analysis of her tumor cells and metastatic lesions contributed significantly to our understanding of how specific genetic alterations influence metastatic spread in breast cancer.
Case Study 2: The Unexpected Resilience of Mr. B
Mr. B, a 70-year-old gentleman with metastatic melanoma, presented a different challenge. His cancer was initially resistant to standard chemotherapy, yet he exhibited remarkable resilience after being enrolled in a clinical trial investigating a novel immunotherapy. His response underscores the transformative potential of advances in cancer biology - metastasis, specifically in the realm of immunotherapies that harness the body's own immune system to fight cancer. The remarkable regression of his metastases in response to this immunotherapy offers a testament to the power of precision medicine and the significant advances in cancer biology - metastasis that are making this possible.
Technological Advancements Driving Progress
The study of metastasis has been revolutionized by technological breakthroughs. Advanced imaging techniques, such as PET and SPECT scans, allow for earlier detection of micrometastases—tiny clusters of cancer cells that might otherwise go undetected. Furthermore, 'omics' technologies—genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics—provide an unprecedented level of detail about the molecular landscape of metastatic cancer, revealing potential drug targets and biomarkers for early detection and prognosis. These advances in cancer biology - metastasis are directly contributing to the development of personalized medicine approaches, tailoring therapies to the specific genetic profile of each patient’s cancer.
Targeting the Metastatic Cascade: New Therapeutic Strategies
Armed with a deeper understanding of the metastatic cascade, researchers are developing novel therapeutic strategies to disrupt the process at various stages. These include:
Targeting EMT: Inhibiting the EMT process can prevent cancer cells from acquiring the invasive properties necessary for metastasis.
Anti-angiogenic therapies: These therapies target the blood vessels that supply nutrients to tumors, thereby starving metastatic lesions and inhibiting their growth.
Immunotherapies: Harnessing the power of the immune system to recognize and destroy metastatic cancer cells represents a major paradigm shift in cancer treatment.
Targeted therapies: These therapies selectively target specific molecular drivers of metastasis, minimizing side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy.
The Future of Metastasis Research
The field of advances in cancer biology - metastasis is dynamic and rapidly evolving. Future research will focus on developing more effective and less toxic therapies, improving early detection strategies, and personalizing treatment based on the unique characteristics of individual cancers. We anticipate a future where metastasis, though still a formidable challenge, is no longer an automatic death sentence but a disease we can effectively manage and, in many cases, cure.
Conclusion:
The journey to conquer metastasis is long and complex, but the incredible advances in cancer biology - metastasis achieved in recent decades have infused renewed hope. Through meticulous research, technological innovation, and unwavering commitment, we are steadily unraveling the mysteries of this devastating disease, transforming the prognosis for millions affected by cancer. The path forward demands continued collaboration, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. Only then will we truly conquer the labyrinth of metastasis.
FAQs:
1. What is the difference between primary and metastatic cancer? Primary cancer is the original tumor; metastatic cancer is cancer that has spread from the primary site to another location in the body.
2. How is metastasis diagnosed? Diagnosis involves imaging techniques (CT, MRI, PET), biopsies, and blood tests.
3. What are the common sites for metastasis? Common sites include the lungs, liver, bones, brain, and lymph nodes.
4. Are all cancers equally likely to metastasize? No. Some cancers are more aggressive and prone to metastasis than others.
5. What are the risk factors for metastasis? Risk factors include the size and grade of the primary tumor, the presence of lymph node involvement, and specific genetic mutations.
6. What is the role of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in metastasis? CTCs are cancer cells that travel in the bloodstream and can contribute to the formation of metastases.
7. How can I reduce my risk of developing metastatic cancer? Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding tobacco, and early detection through regular screenings can reduce the risk.
8. What are some promising new treatments for metastatic cancer? Promising treatments include targeted therapies, immunotherapies, and new chemotherapy regimens.
9. Where can I find more information about clinical trials for metastatic cancer? ClinicalTrials.gov is a valuable resource for finding relevant clinical trials.
Related Articles:
1. "The Role of EMT in Cancer Metastasis": This article delves into the mechanisms of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and its importance in cancer metastasis.
2. "Circulating Tumor Cells as Biomarkers of Metastasis": This article explores the use of CTCs as diagnostic and prognostic tools in cancer.
3. "Advances in Imaging Techniques for Detecting Metastatic Cancer": This article examines the latest imaging technologies used to detect and monitor metastatic disease.
4. "Immunotherapy in Metastatic Cancer: Recent Progress and Challenges": This article reviews the current status and future directions of immunotherapy in metastatic cancer treatment.
5. "Targeted Therapies in the Treatment of Metastatic Cancer": This article focuses on targeted therapies that specifically inhibit key molecular pathways involved in metastasis.
6. "The Microenvironment and its Role in Cancer Metastasis": This explores how the tumor microenvironment influences metastasis.
7. "Genetic Drivers of Metastatic Potential": This focuses on the genetic alterations that increase a tumor's metastatic potential.
8. "Predicting Metastatic Risk: Biomarkers and Risk Stratification": This article examines biomarkers that can predict the risk of metastasis.
9. "Liquid Biopsies and their Application in Monitoring Metastatic Cancer": This article explores the utility of liquid biopsies in monitoring treatment response and detecting recurrence in metastatic disease.
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Systems Biology of Cancer Sam Thiagalingam, 2015-04-09 An overview of the current systems biology-based knowledge and the experimental approaches for deciphering the biological basis of cancer. |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Breast Cancer Metastasis and Drug Resistance Aamir Ahmad, 2019-08-27 Resistance to therapies, both targeted and systemic, and metastases to distant organs are the underlying causes of breast cancer-associated mortality. The second edition of Breast Cancer Metastasis and Drug Resistance brings together some of the leading experts to comprehensively understand breast cancer: the factors that make it lethal, and current research and clinical progress. This volume covers the following core topics: basic understanding of breast cancer (statistics, epidemiology, racial disparity and heterogeneity), metastasis and drug resistance (bone metastasis, trastuzumab resistance, tamoxifen resistance and novel therapeutic targets, including non-coding RNAs, inflammatory cytokines, cancer stem cells, ubiquitin ligases, tumor microenvironment and signaling pathways such as TRAIL, JAK-STAT and mTOR) and recent developments in the field (epigenetic regulation, microRNAs-mediated regulation, novel therapies and the clinically relevant 3D models). Experts also discuss the advances in laboratory research along with their translational and clinical implications with an overarching goal to improve the diagnosis and prognosis, particularly that of breast cancer patients with advanced disease. |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Molecular Biology of the Cell , 2002 |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Cancer Metastasis David Lyden, Danny R. Welch, Bethan Psaila, 2011-04-25 Metastasis is responsible for a large burden of morbidity and mortality among cancer patients, and currently few therapies specifically target metastatic disease. Further scientific dissection of the underlying pathways is required to pave the way for new therapeutic targets. This groundbreaking new text comprehensively covers the processes underlying cancer metastasis and the clinical treatment of metastatic disease. Whereas previous volumes have been compendia of laboratory research articles, the internationally renowned authors of this volume have summarized the state-of-the-art research in the metastasis field. A major section covers the cellular and molecular pathways of metastasis and experimental techniques and the systems and models applied in this field. Subsequently, the clinical aspects of the major cancer types are considered, focusing on disease-specific research and therapeutic approaches to metastatic disease. The focus is on novel pathophysiological insights and emerging therapies; future directions for research and unmet clinical needs are also discussed. |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Breast Cancer: Cellular and Molecular Biology Marc E. Lippman, Robert B. Dickson, 1988-08-31 Where do you begin to look for a recent, authoritative article on the diagnosis or management of particular malignancy? The few general oncology text books are generally out of date. Single papers in specialized journals are informative but seldom comprehensive; these are more often preliminary reports on a very limited number of patients. Certain general journals fre quently publish good in-depth reviews of cancer topics, and published sym posium lectures are often the best overviews available. Unfortunately, these reviews and supplements appear sporadically, and the reader can never be sure when a topic of special interest will be covered. Cancer Treatment and Research is a series of authoritative volumes which aim to meet this need. It is an attempt to establish a critical mass of oncology literature covering virtually all oncology topics, revised frequently to keep the coverage up to date, easily available on a single library shelf or by a single personal subscription. We have approached the problem in the following fashion. First, by divid ing the oncology literature into specific subdivisions such as lung cancer, genitourinary cancer, pediatric oncology, etc. Second, by asking eminent authorities in each of these areas to edit a volume on the specific topic on an annual or biannual basis. Each topic and tumor type is covered in a volume appearing frequently and predictably, discussing current diagnosis, staging, markers, all forms of treatment modalities, basic biology, and more. |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Advanced Drug Delivery Systems in the Management of Cancer Kamal Dua, Meenu Mehta, Terezinha de Jesus Andreoli Pinto, Lisa G. Pont, Kylie A. Williams, Michael Rathbone, 2021-06-24 Advanced Drug Delivery Systems in the Management of Cancer discusses recent developments in nanomedicine and nano-based drug delivery systems used in the treatment of cancers affecting the blood, lungs, brain, and kidneys. The research presented in this book includes international collaborations in the area of novel drug delivery for the treatment of cancer. Cancer therapy remains one of the greatest challenges in modern medicine, as successful treatment requires the elimination of malignant cells that are closely related to normal cells within the body. Advanced drug delivery systems are carriers for a wide range of pharmacotherapies used in many applications, including cancer treatment. The use of such carrier systems in cancer treatment is growing rapidly as they help overcome the limitations associated with conventional drug delivery systems. Some of the conventional limitations that these advanced drug delivery systems help overcome include nonspecific targeting, systemic toxicity, poor oral bioavailability, reduced efficacy, and low therapeutic index. This book begins with a brief introduction to cancer biology. This is followed by an overview of the current landscape in pharmacotherapy for the cancer management. The need for advanced drug delivery systems in oncology and cancer treatment is established, and the systems that can be used for several specific cancers are discussed. Several chapters of the book are devoted to discussing the latest technologies and advances in nanotechnology. These include practical solutions on how to design a more effective nanocarrier for the drugs used in cancer therapeutics. Each chapter is written with the goal of informing readers about the latest advancements in drug delivery system technologies while reinforcing understanding through various detailed tables, figures, and illustrations. Advanced Drug Delivery Systems in the Management of Cancer is a valuable resource for anyone working in the fields of cancer biology and drug delivery, whether in academia, research, or industry. The book will be especially useful for researchers in drug formulation and drug delivery as well as for biological and translational researchers working in the field of cancer. - Presents an overview of the recent perspectives and challenges within the management and diagnosis of cancer - Provides insights into how advanced drug delivery systems can effectively be used in the management of a wide range of cancers - Includes up-to-date information on diagnostic methods and treatment strategies using controlled drug delivery systems |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Natural Products for Cancer Prevention and Therapy Anupam Bishayee, Mukerrem Betul Yerer-Aycan, 2018-11-07 This book is a printed edition of the Special Issue Natural Products for Cancer Prevention and Therapy that was published in Nutrients |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Recent Advances in Cancer Research and Therapy Xin-Yuan Liu, Sidney Pestka, Yu-Fang Shi, 2012-05-18 Cancer continues to be one of the major causes of death throughout the developed world, which has led to increased research on effective treatments. Because of this, in the past decade, rapid progress in the field of cancer treatment has been seen. Recent Advances in Cancer Research and Therapy reviews in specific details some of the most effective and promising treatments developed in research centers worldwide. While referencing advances in traditional therapies and treatments such as chemotherapy, this book also highlights advances in biotherapy including research using Interferon and Super Interferon, HecI based and liposome based therapy, gene therapy, and p53 based cancer therapy. There is also a discussion of current cancer research in China including traditional Chinese medicine. Written by leading scientists in the field, this book provides an essential insight into the current state of cancer therapy and treatment. - Includes a wide range of research areas including a focus on biotherapy and the development of novel cancer therapeutic strategies. - Formatted for a broad audience including all working in researching cancer treatments and therapies. - Discusses special traits and results of Chinese cancer research. |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Cancer Gary S. Stein, Kimberly P. Luebbers, 2019-07-09 A guide to recent insights into the genetic and epigenetic parameters of cancer biology and pathology and emerging clinical applications The thoroughly updated second edition of The Biology and Treatment of Cancer, now titled Cancer: Prevention, Early Detection, Treatment and Recovery, goes beyond reviewing the fundamental properties of cancer biology and the relevant issues associated with treatment of the disease. The new edition contains coverage of additional patient centric topics and presents cancer biology with selection of topics, facts, and perspectives written in easy-to-understand terms. With contributions from noted experts, the book explores recent advances in the understanding of cancer including breakthroughs in the molecular and cellular basis of cancer and provides strategies for approaching cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. The authors incorporate recent information on the genetic and epigenetic parameters of cancer biology and pathology with indications of emerging clinical applications. The text offers a unique guide to cancer prevention, early detection, treatment, and recovery for students, caregivers, and most importantly cancer patients. This significant book: Incorporates current insight into the genetic and epigenetic parameters of cancer biology and pathology and information on emerging clinical applications Contains contributions from leaders in cancer research, care, and clinical trials Offers an accessible guide to an accurate and balanced understanding of cancer and the cancer patient Focuses on the importance of cancer prevention, early detection, treatment, and survivorship Written for medical students, students of cancer biology, and caregivers and cancer patients, Cancer: Prevention, Early Detection, Treatment and Recovery offers an authoritative overview of the challenges and opportunities associated with cancer biology, cancer research, and the spectrum of clinical considerations. |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: The Heterogeneity of Cancer Metabolism Anne Le, 2018-06-26 Genetic alterations in cancer, in addition to being the fundamental drivers of tumorigenesis, can give rise to a variety of metabolic adaptations that allow cancer cells to survive and proliferate in diverse tumor microenvironments. This metabolic flexibility is different from normal cellular metabolic processes and leads to heterogeneity in cancer metabolism within the same cancer type or even within the same tumor. In this book, we delve into the complexity and diversity of cancer metabolism, and highlight how understanding the heterogeneity of cancer metabolism is fundamental to the development of effective metabolism-based therapeutic strategies. Deciphering how cancer cells utilize various nutrient resources will enable clinicians and researchers to pair specific chemotherapeutic agents with patients who are most likely to respond with positive outcomes, allowing for more cost-effective and personalized cancer therapeutic strategies. |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: The Biology of Cancer Weinberg, Robert A., 2013-05-24 Incorporating the most important advances in the fast-growing field of cancer biology, the text maintains all of its hallmark features. It is admired by students, instructors, researchers, and clinicians around the world for its clear writing, extensive full-color art program, and numerous pedagogical features. |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Biomechanics in Oncology Cheng Dong, Nastaran Zahir, Konstantinos Konstantopoulos, 2018-10-27 This book covers multi-scale biomechanics for oncology, ranging from cells and tissues to whole organ. Topics covered include, but not limited to, biomaterials in mechano-oncology, non-invasive imaging techniques, mechanical models of cell migration, cancer cell mechanics, and platelet-based drug delivery for cancer applications. This is an ideal book for graduate students, biomedical engineers, and researchers in the field of mechanobiology and oncology. This book also: Describes how mechanical properties of cancer cells, the extracellular matrix, tumor microenvironment and immuno-editing, and fluid flow dynamics contribute to tumor progression and the metastatic process Provides the latest research on non-invasive imaging, including traction force microscopy and brillouin confocal microscopy Includes insight into NCIs’ role in supporting biomechanics in oncology research Details how biomaterials in mechano-oncology can be used as a means to tune materials to study cancer |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Central Nervous System Metastases Rohan Ramakrishna, Rajiv S. Magge, Ali A. Baaj, Jonathan P.S. Knisely, 2020-05-27 This is a multi-specialty book on the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of CNS metastases of the brain and spine. Written by renowned experts in their fields, the book covers essential contemporary topics in CNS metastases care. The book is divided into seven parts that begin with chapters that cover the fundamental biology of disease so that subsequent chapters on imaging, diagnosis, treatment, and palliation can be properly contextualized. This text also provides a framework for understanding the biology of radiation therapy so that radiation treatment options of the brain and spine can be more fully understood. New medications and technologies are reviewed from the perspective of maximizing efficacy and minimizing toxicity, independently and as combinatorial therapy. Central Nervous System Metastases: Diagnosis and Treatment serves as a practical reference for health care providers and trainees. It provides the comprehensive, detailed perspective required to provide holistic care to patients with metastatic disease to the brain and spine. |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Recent Advances in Polyphenol Research, Volume 3 Véronique Cheynier, Pascale Sarni-Manchado, Stéphane Quideau, 2012-02-21 Plant polyphenols are secondary metabolites that constitute one of the most common and widespread groups of natural products. They express a large and diverse panel of biological activities including beneficial effects on both plants and humans. Many polyphenols, from their structurally simplest representatives to their oligo/polymeric versions (also referred to as vegetable tannins) are notably known as phytoestrogens, plant pigments, potent antioxidants, and protein interacting agents. Sponsored by Groupe Polyphénols, this publication, which is the third volume in this highly regarded Recent Advances in Polyphenol Research series, is edited by Véronique Cheynier, Pascale Sarni-Manchado, and Stéphane Quideau (the current President of Groupe Polyphénols). Like their predecessors, they have once again put together an impressive collection of cutting-edge chapters written by expert scientists internationally respected in their respective field of polyphenol sciences. This Volume 3 provides the latest information and opinion on the following major research topics about polyphenols: Organic chemistry and physical chemistry Biosynthesis, genetics and metabolic engineering The role of polyphenols in plants and ecosystems Health and nutrition Analysis and metabolomics Chemists, biochemists, plant scientists, pharmacognosists and pharmacologists, biologists, ecologists, food scientists and nutritionists will all find this book an invaluable resource. Libraries in all universities and research institutions where these disciplines are studied and taught should have copies on their bookshelves. |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Advances in Cancer Biomarkers Roberto Scatena, 2015 At present there are a growing number of biomolecules under investigation to understand their potential role as cancer biomarker for diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic purposes. Intriguingly, the state of art on cancer biomarkers research shows interesting and promising results together to clamorous failures. Also from a clinical point of view, there are contradictory results on routine clinical use of the present cancer biomarkers. Some patients may be simply monitored in their course by a periodic blood sample, but sometimes this monitoring shows dramatic limits. A lot of patients show serious and extensive relapses without significant change in serum concentrations of biomarkers tested. Often the physician who should utilize these biomarker does not entirely know their limits and the total potential applications as well and sometimes this knowledge is influenced by economical and marketing strategies. This limited and polluted knowledge may have dramatic consequences for patient. The aim of this book is to diffuse all aspects of cancer biomarkers, from their biochemical peculiarities to all clinical implications by passing through their physiology and pathophysiology. This critical approach towards old and new cancer biomarkers should foster a deepened and useful understanding of the diagnostic and prognostic index of these fundamental parameters of laboratory medicine and in the same time facilitating the research of new and more sensitive-specific signals of the cancer cell proliferation. |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Tumor Organoids Shay Soker, Aleksander Skardal, 2017-10-20 Cancer cell biology research in general, and anti-cancer drug development specifically, still relies on standard cell culture techniques that place the cells in an unnatural environment. As a consequence, growing tumor cells in plastic dishes places a selective pressure that substantially alters their original molecular and phenotypic properties.The emerging field of regenerative medicine has developed bioengineered tissue platforms that can better mimic the structure and cellular heterogeneity of in vivo tissue, and are suitable for tumor bioengineering research. Microengineering technologies have resulted in advanced methods for creating and culturing 3-D human tissue. By encapsulating the respective cell type or combining several cell types to form tissues, these model organs can be viable for longer periods of time and are cultured to develop functional properties similar to native tissues. This approach recapitulates the dynamic role of cell–cell, cell–ECM, and mechanical interactions inside the tumor. Further incorporation of cells representative of the tumor stroma, such as endothelial cells (EC) and tumor fibroblasts, can mimic the in vivo tumor microenvironment. Collectively, bioengineered tumors create an important resource for the in vitro study of tumor growth in 3D including tumor biomechanics and the effects of anti-cancer drugs on 3D tumor tissue. These technologies have the potential to overcome current limitations to genetic and histological tumor classification and development of personalized therapies. |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Prostate Cancer Scott M. Dehm, Donald J. Tindall, 2020-01-03 The purpose of this book is to provide a contemporary overview of the causes and consequences of prostate cancer from a cellular and genetic perspective. Written by experts in the fields of epidemiology, toxicology, cell biology, genetics, genomics, cell-cell interactions, cell signaling, hormone signaling, and transcriptional regulation, the text covers aspects of prostate cancer from disease initiation to metastasis. Chapters explore in depth the cells of origin for prostate cancer, its genomic subtypes, neural transcription factors in disease progression, epigenetic regulation of chromatin, and many other topics. This book distinguishes itself from other texts on prostate cancer by its focus on cellular and genetic mechanisms, as opposed to clinical diagnosis and management. As a result, this book will be of broad interest to basic and translational scientists with familiarity of these topics, as well as to trainees at earlier stages of their research careers. |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Molecular and Cellular Basis of Metastasis: Road to Therapy , 2016-09-03 Molecular and Cellular Basis of Metastasis: Road to Therapy, the latest in the Advances in Cancer Research series, provides invaluable information on the exciting and fast-moving field of cancer research. Here, once again, outstanding and original reviews are presented on a variety of topics, with this volume covering the molecular and cellular basis of metastasis. - Presents groundbreaking information on the molecular and cellular basis of metastasis - Provides information on cancer research - Outstanding and original reviews - Suitable for both researchers and students |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Molecular Biology of Cancer Lauren Pecorino, 2012-04-26 Demonstrating how the malfunction of normal molecular pathways and components can lead to cancer, this text explores how our understanding of these defective mechanisms can be harnessed to develop new targeted therapeutic agents. |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Cancer as a Metabolic Disease Thomas Seyfried, 2012-05-18 The book addresses controversies related to the origins of cancer and provides solutions to cancer management and prevention. It expands upon Otto Warburg's well-known theory that all cancer is a disease of energy metabolism. However, Warburg did not link his theory to the hallmarks of cancer and thus his theory was discredited. This book aims to provide evidence, through case studies, that cancer is primarily a metabolic disease requring metabolic solutions for its management and prevention. Support for this position is derived from critical assessment of current cancer theories. Brain cancer case studies are presented as a proof of principle for metabolic solutions to disease management, but similarities are drawn to other types of cancer, including breast and colon, due to the same cellular mutations that they demonstrate. |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Current Advances in the Science of Osteosarcoma Eugenie S. Kleinerman, Richard Gorlick, 2020-08-07 This thoroughly revised second edition is an up-to-date overview of the new advances in the knowledge of the basic science in sarcoma and osteosarcoma. It features detailed, in-depth discussions of microRNAs in osteosarcoma, historical perspectives of chemotherapy in the treatment of the disease, tumor targeted IL12 therapy and HER2 targeted therapy, the role of enhancer elements in regulating the prometastatic transcriptional program and more. Further, this essential volume also includes new insights on Wnt signaling in osteosarcoma, the role of genomics, genetically modified T-cell therapy, liquid biopsy, oncolytic viruses, immunophenotyping, receptor tyrosine kinases and epigenetic-focused approaches for treatment of osteosarcoma metastases, as well as thoughts on the current standard of treatment for patients suffering from these cancers. In the years since the previous edition, there have been numerous new developments in this rapidly changing field; this new edition is both timely and urgently needed. When taken together these companion volumes, Current Clinical (Book 1) and Scientific (Book 2) Advances in Osteosarcoma, are a timely and urgently needed guide for laboratory investigators and clinical oncologists. |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Metastatic Cancer: Clinical and Biological Perspectives Rahul Jandial, 2013-08-08 Most cancer deaths are a result of metastasis. The spread of a primary tumor to colonize neighboring and distant organs is the relentless endgame that defines the neoplastic process. Patients who have been diagnosed with cancer are treated to prevent both the recurrence of the tumor at the site of origin and metastasis that would re-stage them as advanced stage IV cancer. Historically and still with some types of cancer, stage IV is perceived by patients as “terminal.” Fortunately, recent molecular therapies have extended the lives of patients with advanced cancer and reassuringly people living with metastatic disease increasingly visit our clinics. What is the path forward? Given that the consilience of science and medicine is a dynamic art from which therapies arise, it would be misguided to consider any single work adequate at capturing the horizon for research. So with humility we constructed this text as primer for scientists. It begins with a broad introduction to the clinical management of common cancers. This is intended to serve as a foundation for investigators to consider when developing basic science hypotheses. Unquestionably, medical and surgical care of cancer patients reveals biology and dictates how novel therapeutics will ultimately be evaluated in clinical trials. The second section of this text offers provocative and evolving insights that underscore the breadth of science involved in the elucidation of cancer metastasis biology. The text concludes with information that integrates scientific and clinical foundations to highlight translational research. This book serves as a framework for scientists to conceptualize clinical and translational knowledge on the complexity of disease that is metastatic cancer. |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Cancer Evolution Charles Swanton, 2017 Tumor progression is driven by mutations that confer growth advantages to different subpopulations of cancer cells. As a tumor grows, these subpopulations expand, accumulate new mutations, and are subjected to selective pressures from the environment, including anticancer interventions. This process, termed clonal evolution, can lead to the emergence of therapy-resistant tumors and poses a major challenge for cancer eradication efforts. Written and edited by experts in the field, this collection from Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives in Medicine examines cancer progression as an evolutionary process and explores how this way of looking at cancer may lead to more effective strategies for managing and treating it. The contributors review efforts to characterize the subclonal architecture and dynamics of tumors, understand the roles of chromosomal instability, driver mutations, and mutation order, and determine how cancer cells respond to selective pressures imposed by anticancer agents, immune cells, and other components of the tumor microenvironment. They compare cancer evolution to organismal evolution and describe how ecological theories and mathematical models are being used to understand the complex dynamics between a tumor and its microenvironment during cancer progression. The authors also discuss improved methods to monitor tumor evolution (e.g., liquid biopsies) and the development of more effective strategies for managing and treating cancers (e.g., immunotherapies). This volume will therefore serve as a vital reference for all cancer biologists as well as anyone seeking to improve clinical outcomes for patients with cancer. |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: The Biology and Treatment of Cancer Arthur B. Pardee, Gary S. Stein, 2011-09-20 Offers a broad audience a concise presentation of the most up-to-date knowledge about the biology and treatment of cancer Full coverage of cancer prevention and control Clear, thorough discussion of current and possible future therapies Edited by two of the most eminent and widely recognized scholars of cancer research and therapeutics in the world, with contributions from top researchers and clinicians from across North America |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Ovarian Cancers National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Board on Health Care Services, Committee on the State of the Science in Ovarian Cancer Research, 2016-04-25 In an era of promising advances in cancer research, there are considerable and even alarming gaps in the fundamental knowledge and understanding of ovarian cancer. Researchers now know that ovarian cancer is not a single disease-several distinct subtypes exist with different origins, risk factors, genetic mutations, biological behaviors, and prognoses. However, persistent questions have impeded progress toward improving the prevention, early detection, treatment, and management of ovarian cancers. Failure to significantly improve morbidity and mortality during the past several decades is likely due to several factors, including the lack of research being performed by specific disease subtype, lack of definitive knowledge of the cell of origin and disease progression, and incomplete understanding of genetic and non-genetic risk factors. Ovarian Cancers examines the state of the science in ovarian cancer research, identifies key gaps in the evidence base and the challenges to addressing those gaps, considers opportunities for advancing ovarian cancer research, and examines avenues for translation and dissemination of new findings and communication of new information to patients and others. This study makes recommendations for public- and private-sector efforts that could facilitate progress in reducing the incidence of morbidity and mortality from ovarian cancers. |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Rethinking Cancer Bernhard Strauss, Marta Bertolaso, Ingemar Ernberg, Mina J. Bissell, 2021-04-27 Leading scientists argue for a new paradigm for cancer research, proposing a complex systems view of cancer supported by empirical evidence. Current consensus in cancer research explains cancer as a disease caused by specific mutations in certain genes. After dramatic advances in genome sequencing, never before have we known so much about the individual cancer cell--and yet never before has it been so unclear what to do with this knowledge. In this volume, leading researchers argue for a new theory framework for understanding and treating cancer. The contributors propose a complex systems view of cancer, presenting conceptual building blocks for a new research paradigm supported by empirical evidence. The contributors first discuss the new research framework in terms of theoretical foundations and then take up the relevance of a systems approach, reviewing such topics as nonlinearity, recurrence after treatment, the cellular attractor concept, network theory, and non-coding DNA--the dark matter of our genome. They address the temporality of cancer progression, drawing on evolutionary theory and clinical experience. Finally, they cover the dominant role of the tissue microenvironment in cancer, analyzing topics including altered metabolic pathways, the disease-defining influence on metastasis, and the interconnectedness of different environmental niches across levels of organization. |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Bone Cancer Dominique Heymann, 2009-08-20 The epidemiological and clinical importance of bone metastasis has long been recognized, but the past decade has seen an explosion in the fields of bone biology and bone cancer research. This period of time has been marked by a number of key discoveries that have led to the opening up of entirely new areas for investigation as well as new therapies which combine surgery and biological therapeutic approaches.Bone is a common site of cancer metastases - cancer cells commonly develop in bone and spread to other organ systems through the bloodstream. For example, the incidence of bone metastases in breast and prostate cancers is 70%, whereas it is only 30 to 40% in metastatic lung cancer. In clinical terms, bone metastases have substantial negative effects on a patient's quality of life and are a main cause of patient mortality. Given the global prevalence of breast and prostate cancers, knowledge of bone biology has become essential for the medical and cancer research communities. This book provides, all in one resource, the most recent data on bone cancer development (cellular and molecular mechanisms), genomic and proteomic analyses, clinical analyses (histopathology, imaging, pain monitoring), as well as new therapeutic approaches and clinical trials for primary bone tumors and bone metastases. Feature - Presents a comprehensive, translational source for all aspects of bone cancer in one reference work - Bone cancer experts (from all areas of research and practice) take readers from the bench research (cellular and molecular mechanism), through genomic and proteomic analysis, all the way to clinical analysis (histopathology and imaging) and new therapeutic approaches. - Clear presentation by bone biologists of the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying bone tumors and bone cancer metastasis as well as the genomic and proteomic assays used in detecting cancer within given organ systems - - Clear presentation by oncologists and radiologists of how histopathology, imaging, and pain monitoring can lead to new therapeutic approaches Benefit - Saves researchers and clinicians time in quickly accessing the very latest details on a broad range of bone cancer issues, as opposed to searching through thousands of journal articles. - Provides a common language for cancer researchers, bone biologists, oncologists, and radiologists to discuss bone tumors and how bone cancer metastases affects each major organ system - Correct diagnosis (and therefore correct treatment) of cancer depends on a strong understanding of the molecular basis for the disease – both oncologists and radiologists will benefit - Bone biologists will gain insight into how clinical observations and practices can feed back into the research cycle and will, therefore, be able to develop more targeted genomic and proteomic assays |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Oxford Textbook of Cancer Biology Francesco Pezzella, Mahvash Tavassoli, David Kerr, 2019-05-02 The study of the biology of tumours has grown to become markedly interdisciplinary, involving chemists, statisticians, epidemiologists, mathematicians, bioinformaticians, and computer scientists alongside biologists, geneticists, and clinicians. The Oxford Textbook of Cancer Biology brings together the most up-to-date developments from different branches of research into one coherent volume, providing a comprehensive and current account of this rapidly evolving field. Structured in eight sections, the book starts with a review of the development and biology of multi-cellular organisms, how they maintain a healthy homeostasis in an individual, and a description of the molecular basis of cancer development. The book then illustrates, as once cells become neoplastic, their signalling network is altered and pathological behaviour follows. It explores the changes that cancer cells can induce in nearby normal tissue, the new relationship established between them and the stroma, and the interaction between the immune system and tumour growth. The authors illustrate the contribution provided by high throughput techniques to map cancer at different levels, from genomic sequencing to cellular metabolic functions, and how information technology, with its vast amounts of data, is integrated with traditional cell biology to provide a global view of the disease. The effect of the different types of treatments on the biology of the neoplastic cells are explored to understand on the one side, why some treatments succeed, and on the other, how they can affect the biology of resistant and recurrent disease. The book concludes by summarizing what we know to date about cancer, and in what direction our understanding of cancer is moving. Edited by leading authorities in the field with an international team of contributors, this book is an essential resource for scholars and professionals working in the wide variety of sub-disciplines that make up today's cancer research and treatment community. It is written not only for consultation, but also for easy cover-to-cover reading. |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Bone Cancer Dominique Heymann, 2021-09-23 Bone Cancer: Bone Sarcomas and Bone Metastases - From Bench to Bedside, Third Edition comprehensively investigates key discoveries in the field of bone biology. New aspects of bone cancer biology are treated in new chapters covering exosomes, autophagy, and metabolism. These have led to the development of entirely new areas for investigation, such as therapies which combine surgery and biological approaches. The Third Edition expands on the original overview of bone cancer development (physiology and pathophysiology), with 40% new material. Each chapter has been written by internationally recognized specialists on the bone cancer microenvironment, bone metastases, osteoclast biology in bone cancer, proteomics, bone niche, circulating tumor cells, and clinical trials. Given the global prevalence of breast and prostate cancers, knowledge of bone biology has become essential for everyone within the medical and cancer research communities. Bone Cancer: Bone Sarcomas and Bone Metastases - From Bench to Bedside continues to offer the only translational reference to cover all aspects of primary bone cancer and bone metastases. This revision opens the door to myeloma with two short chapters dedicated to this bone-associated disease. - Covers the broad field of bone sarcomas and bone metastases from basic research to clinical approaches - Presents comprehensive and translational overview of biological and clinical aspects of bone cancers, discussing pathophysiology from genetic and molecular levels using the most recent evidence - Provides a common language for cancer researchers, bone biologists, oncologists, and radiologists to discuss bone tumors and how bone cancer metastases affects each major organ system - Offers insights to research clinicians (oncologists and radiologists) into understanding the molecular basis of bone cancer, leading to more well-informed diagnoses and treatment of tumors and metastases - Offers insights to bone biologists into how clinical observations and practices can feed back into the research cycle and, therefore, can contribute to the development of more targeted genomic and proteomic assays |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Molecular Biology of Prostate Cancer Manfred Wirth, J. E. Altwein, B. Schmitz-Dräger, S. Kuptz, 2013-05-22 |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Introduction to Cancer Metastasis Aamir Ahmad, 2016-11-14 Introduction to Cancer Metastasis provides, in one place, an overview of organ-specific cancer metastasis and the most common sites of cancer metastasis. Through specific chapters on individual primary cancers, their metastasis, and chapters on common metastatic sites, this volume comprehensively informs readers about the broader knowledge base in cancer metastasis. The process of metastasis is particularly responsible for making cancer so lethal. This volume explores both metastasis from sites of origin and common metastatic sites, thus increasing understanding of both perspectives. - Includes basic biology and translational approaches to organ-specific cancer sites - Provides readers with information on emerging therapeutic targets for cancer metastasis - Contains contributions from leading researchers around the globe |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Metastasis Research Protocols Susan A. Brooks, Udo Schumacher, 2008-02-02 In Volume I, Analysis of Cells and Tissues, we presented a range of protocols aimed at mapping and analyzing the expression of various molecules of pot- tial interest in metastasis research and for examining their production at the genetic level. In this second volume of metastasis research protocols, we move to the level of living cells and tissues and present methodologies applicable to examining metastatic behavior in vitro and in whole animal models. The methods described in the first section of this volume concentrate on the separation of cell lines with high and low metastatic potential, including the genetic modification of cell lines. The assay systems to test defined aspects of the metastatic cascade are then described in Part II and include cell migration assays, assays for matrix degrading enzymes, basement membrane degrading assays, adhesion assays, and assays of angiogenesis. The role of the specific elements of the metastatic cascade assayed in each of these systems in turn must of course be put into perspective relative to their roles in entire living organisms. |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Tumor Dormancy and Recurrence Yuzhuo Wang, Francesco Crea, 2017-09-11 This volume will be the first to provide a comprehensive description of tumor dormancy. It will define the clinical and biological aspects of this phenomenon, as well as the cellular and molecular mechanisms associated with tumor dormancy. Chapters will be authored by world-renewed experts who are conducting cutting-edge research in the field. A unique feature will be a conclusive paragraph detailing future development and foreseeable clinical applications at the end of each chapter. The volume will serve as a fundamental instrument for every researcher and clinician interested in the field of tumor dormancy as well as a means of disseminating stimulating concepts and prompting the development of innovative technological solutions. |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma Shahrokh F. Shariat, Evanguelos Xylinas, 2014-09-13 Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma represents the first book of its kind to be dedicated solely to UTUC. It's aim is to improve understanding and eventually care of a disease that is greatly understudied and underappreciated, yet commonly dealt with by many medical and urologic oncologists. The volume features new data regarding genetic susceptibility, gene expression studies and causative factors; contemporary concepts and controversies regarding diagnosis and staging of UTUC; prediction tools and their value in treatment decisions within each disease stage and patient selection and treatment options such as endoscopic management, distal ureterectomy, radical nephroureterectomy and chemotherapy. Up-to-date information regarding boundaries of surgical resection, indication and extent of lymphadenectomy is covered as well as the role of perioperative/neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with high-risk UTUC. Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma will be of great value to all Urologists, Medical Oncologists and fellows in Urologic Oncology as well as upper level residents in training in Urology and Medical Oncology. |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Central Nervous System Metastases Manmeet Ahluwalia, Philippe Metellus, Riccardo Soffietti, 2019-11-05 This book provides a comprehensive overview of brain metastases, from the molecular biology aspects to therapeutic management and perspectives. Due to the increasing incidence of these tumors and the urgent need to effectively control brain metastatic diseases in these patients, new therapeutic strategies have emerged in recent years. The volume discusses all these innovative approaches combined with new surgical techniques (fluorescence, functional mapping, integrated navigation), novel radiation therapy techniques (stereotactic radiosurgery) and new systemic treatment approaches such as targeted- and immunotherapy. These combination strategies represent a new therapeutic model in brain metastatic patients in which each medical practitioner (neurosurgeon, neurologist, medical oncologist, radiation oncologist) plays a pivotal role in defining the optimal treatment in a multidisciplinary approach. Written by recognized experts in the field, this book is a valuable tool for neurosurgeons, neuro-oncologists, neuroradiologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, cognitive therapists, basic scientists and students working in the area of brain tumors. |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Physics Of Cancer, The: Research Advances Bernard S Gerstman, 2020-12-03 Cancer deaths per capita have decreased in recent years, but the improvement is attributed to prevention, not treatment. The difficulty in treating cancer may be due to its 'complexity', in the mathematical physics sense of the word. Tumors evolve and spread in response to internal and external factors that involve feedback mechanisms and nonlinear behavior. Investigations of the nonlinear interactions among cells, and between cells and their environment, are crucial for developing a sufficiently detailed understanding of the system's emergent phenomenology to be able to control the behavior. In the case of cancer, controlling the system's behavior will mean the ability to treat and cure the disease. Physicists have been studying various complex, nonlinear systems for many years using a variety of techniques. These investigations have provided insights that allow physicists to make unique contributions towards the treatment of cancer.This interdisciplinary book presents recent advancements in physicists' research on cancer. The work presented in this volume uses a variety of physical, biochemical, mathematical, theoretical, and computational techniques to gain a deeper molecular and cellular understanding of the horrific disease that is cancer. |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Apoptosis and Cancer Seamus J. Martin, 1997 |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Tumor Invasion and Metastasis L.A. Liotta, I.R. Hart, 2012-12-06 The clinical significance of tumor spread has always been appreciated. Yet, in spite of the pioneering work and outstanding contributions of investigators such as D. Coman, H. Green, B. Fisher, S. Wood and I. Zeidman, studies on metastasis rarely achieved the popularity afforded to more esoteric areas of tumor biology. Tumor dissemination, occurring as it does in a responding host and being composed of a series of dynamic int~ractions, is a highly complex phenomenon. Few investigators were brave enough to attempt to unravel the mechanisms involved. Paradoxically, this very complexity may have contributed, in part, to the recent upsurge of interest in metastasis research. More and more researchers are becoming fascinated by the complexities of the cellular interactions involved in tumor spread. Accompanying this intellectual stimulation have been technological advances in related fields which allow the derivation of new model systems. The mechanisms of metastatic spread are increasingly amenable to both the reductionist and holistic approaches and it is the purpose of this volume to present many of these model systems while emphasizing the intricacy and complexity of the processes they mimic. We have attempted to emphasize two topics not previously covered in depth in previous books on metastases. These are in vitro models of invasion and in teractions of tumor cells with connective tissue. |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Physics of Cancer Claudia Mierke, 2018-10-24 This revised second edition is improved linguistically with multiple increases of the number of figures and the inclusion of several novel chapters such as actin filaments during matrix invasion, microtubuli during migration and matrix invasion, nuclear deformability during migration and matrix invasion, and the active role of the tumor stroma in regulating cell invasion. |
| advances in cancer biology metastasis: Advances in Cancer Research George F. Vande Woude, George Klein, 2011-07-29 The Advances in Cancer Research series provides invaluable information on the exciting and fast-moving field of cancer research. A very special event the Nobel Minisymposium, Molecular Oncology – From Bench to Bedside, held at the Karolinska Instituet, in Stockholm, Sweden, was marked the celebration of George and Eva Klein's combined 160th birthday. To honor this occasion, this volume brings together contributions by their former students, colleagues and collaborators of the past fifty years into a volume of Advances in Cancer Research dedicated to George and Eva. Over a decade ago, a subdivision of ACR called Foundations in Cancer Research was initiated and the tributes honoring the Kleins' bodies of work presented at the minisymposium are especially appropriate for the series. |
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