Debating Cancer: The Paradox In Cancer Research

by Henry H Q Heng

Overview

Cancer research is at a crossroads. Traditionally, cancer has been thought of as a disease of gene mutation, where the stepwise accumulation of cancer gene mutations is the key, and the identification of common gene mutations has been considered to be essential for diagnosis and treatment. Despite extensive research efforts and accumulated knowledge on cancer genes and pathways, the clinical benefits of this traditional approach have been limited. Recently, cancer genome sequencing has revealed an extensive amount of genetic heterogeneity where the long-expected common mutation drivers have been difficult, if not impossible, to identify. These realities ultimately challenge the conceptual framework of current cancer biology.This book introduces a new concept of genome theory of cancer evolution, in an attempt to unify the field. Many important and representative, but often confusing, questions and paradoxes are critically analyzed. By comparing gene- and genome-based theories, the hidden flaws of many popular viewpoints are addressed. This discussion is intended to initiate a much-needed critical re-evaluation of current cancer research.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9789814520843
Publisher:	World Scientific Publishing Company, Incorporated
Publication date:	12/03/2015
Pages:	464
Product dimensions:	6.20(w) x 9.10(h) x 1.20(d)

Table of Contents

Gene Mutation Theory vs. Genome Theory; Cancer Genome Landscape: The Untold Story of Cancer Genome Sequencing; Lottery Principle: The Gene, Genome, Environment, and the Perfect Storm; Examples of Popular but Flawed Concepts about Cancer; Why "Noise" is Important in Cancer Evolution; Why Basic Research Fails to Bridge the Gap with the Clinic World; Do Different Cancers Represent Different Species?; Challenging Current Molecular Methodologies for Cancer Research.