Origin of Cancers: Clinical Perspectives and Implications of a Stem-Cell Theory of Cancer

ISBN-13: 9781461426035 / Angielski / Miękka / 2012 / 237 str.

Shi-Ming Tu

Opis

Precis This book is a treatise about the origin of cancers. I would like to convince readers that the basic tenets of the theory of a stem-cell origin of cancers also constitute a unified theory of cancer. Stem-cell origin of normal (and cancer) cells: Vitruvian version Every truth passes through three stages before it is recognized. In the first it is ridiculed, in the second, it is opposed, in the third, it is regarded as self-evident. Arthur Schopenhauer v vi Preface Every person has a unique story to tell. My story is about cancer. Cancer touches the lives of countless people. Often enough, it leaves indelible tracks. Many lives have been lost; others are forever changed. For those who confront this deadly scourge, there is a sense of urgency, if not of desperation. For those who face im- nent death, life becomes even more precious and carries a special meaning. As an oncologist, I am touched daily by cancer. I feel its inception, evolution, and aft- math. It seems as though we are fighting an incessant war against cancer at the front line in the trenches. This is my story about cancer. Some people are terrific storytellers. Others have incredible tales to tell."

Recenzje

From the reviews:

"This concise book is written for a broad audience of basic science and clinical researchers interested in cancer biology, as well as those interested in the identification and directed differentiation of adult and embryonic stem cells. The author's clear writing style will appeal to young scientists and nonexperts who are interested in ... cancer stem-cell theory. ... is captivating, fascinating, instructive, and well written. ... The book is fun to read. ... This is a welcome addition to the literature on cancer biology." (Bruce A. Fenderson, Doody's Review Service, July, 2010)

Spis treści

Introduction Cancer myths History of cancer Origin of cancer Stem cells Stem cells and cancer Cancer stem cells Cancer niche Ontogeny and oncology Diagnosis and prognosis Cancer targets Heterogeneity of cancer Metastasis Cancer immunity Drug resistance Paradigm shifts Experimental proof Clinical implications Curing cancer Epilogue

Blurb

The theory of a stem-cell origin of cancer is neither ground breaking nor earth shattering. Many prominent investigators have established the foundation for this concept and performed the vital experiments to support its validity and merit. The purpose of this book is to illustrate how this theory may completely transform our current views and perspectives about cancer.  It is anticipated that the variety of ramifications of a stem-cell origin of cancers will be embraced by the medical research community to bring new treatment modalities to the cancer patient.

"The stem-cell theory of cancer has significant biologic and clinical consequences. Though components remain open to debate the fundamental observations are grounded in scientific experimentation. This text explains the conceptual aspects of cancer stem cells with an emphasis on the implications for our patients."

- Steven T. Rosen, M.D.

Series Editor