Experimental and Clinical Metastasis : A Comprehensive Review

Metastatic disease is the most lethal aspect of human malignancies, making the understanding and continued research of the process of metastasis a crucial step in treating cancer. The proposed book, entitled “Experimental and Clinical Metastasis: A Comprehensive Review” aims to provide a clear and extensive review of the clinical and experimental implications of metastatic disease. This work focuses on recent contributions to the field of metastasis, and will highlight crucial findings in the molecular understanding of disseminated disease as well as standard and personalized medicine currently being investigated in the clinic. Topics will include, among many, gene properties of metastatic cells, molecular mechanisms of tumour growth and spread, animal models of metastasis, and clinical implications, markers and treatment for metastatic disease. With the participation of worldwide experts in the field of oncology, from major academic and government centres, this book will provide a leading manual for the study of the metastatic process, from benchside science to bedside care. In this light, the proposed book will facilitate classroom learning for both medical and graduate students, as well as serve as a tool for physicians and researchers interested in the metastatic process. In addition, this book will include the latest advances in basic science as well as leading technologies and theories of targeting metastatic cells. Most importantly, not only will basic and clinical aspects be discussed, but furthermore, the translational aspect of research in metastatic diseases will be emphasized.

The primary cause of death related to cancers can be traced back to metastases, originated from cancer cells. The presence of metastatic disease, the spread of cancer cells, is the most important prognostic and survival factor in patients with cancer. Although treatment of the primary tumor is well established and usually results in local control, treating metastatic disease is a much more daunting task. At diagnosis, few patients present with clinically detectable metastatic lesions regardless of the clinical prognostic factor. Clinical trials assessing potential therapeutic agents are important in order to define the best specific treatment for a particular patient, which are the basis for patient-oriented research that eventually lead to personalized medicine.

This volume aims to comprehensively present the latest research and information about metastasis. Understanding the mechanisms underlying the metastatic phenomenon could have vast implications for the large number of patients who are at a high risk for the development of metastasis.