Introduction to Cancer Biology

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. 'Robin Hesketh has produced a remarkable introduction to cancer biology which covers all of the key areas of current knowledge and brings them up to date to current research concepts and developments remarkably. He writes in an accessible way that will be valuable for students fresh to biology but also produces a book that will be very useful to experienced biologists and physicians who want to have to hand a broad overview of this fast moving and diverse field ... The structure of the book is clear and informative and encompasses critically important biological knowledge from the level of the cell to population studies in epidemiology ... it is very challenging to introduce a book which is really useful both for new students and established practitioners. Robin Hesketh has succeeded remarkably well in doing so.' Peter Selby, Director, Leeds Institute of Molecular Medicine '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, ChoiceIntroduction; 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.