Introduction to Cancer Biology

A concise overview of the fundamental concepts of cancer biology for those with little or no background in the field.

Robin Hesketh (Author)

9781107601482, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 13 December 2012

352 pages, 130 b/w illus. 38 colour illus.
24.6 x 18.9 x 1.8 cm, 0.8 kg

'The structure of the book is clear and well organized. The author writes well, giving excellent explanations of concepts ranging from basic principles to cutting-edge research. The book is a valuable resource for introducing lower-level students to the biology of cancer. Highly recommended.' H. Zhou, Choice

This concise overview of the fundamental concepts of cancer biology is ideal for those with little or no background in the field. A summary of global cancer patterns introduces students to the general principles of how cancers arise and the risk factors involved. By focusing on fundamental examples of the signalling pathways within cells, the functional effects of DNA damage are explained. Later chapters then build on this foundation to provide a comprehensive summary of the major signalling pathways that affect tumour development. Current therapeutic strategies are reviewed, along with a discussion of methods for tumour detection and biomarker identification. Finally, the impact of whole genome sequencing is discussed, bringing students up to date with key recent developments in the field. From basic principles to insights into cutting-edge research, this book will enable the reader to move into the cancer field with confidence.

Introduction
1. Lessons from epidemiology
2. Causes of cancer
3. Signalling in normal cells
4. 'Cancer genes': mutations and cancer development
5. What is a tumour?
6. Cancer signalling networks
7. The future of cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment
8. The future of cancer in the post-genomic era
Ten major cancers at a glance
Appendix. Targets of specific anti-cancer drugs
Glossary
Further reading
Index.

Subject Areas: Cellular biology [cytology PSF], Molecular biology [PSD], Developmental biology [PSC], Biochemistry [PSB], Biology, life sciences [PS], Oncology [MJCL]