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This volume provides a series of review articles that capture the advances in using the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, model system to address a wide range of cancer-related topics. Articles in this book provide case studies that shed light on the intricate cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying tumor formation and progression. Readers will discover the beauty of the fly model's genetic simplicity and the vast arsenal of powerful genetic tools enabling its efficient and adaptable use. This model organism has provided a unique opportunity to address questions regarding cancer initiation and development that would be extremely challenging in other model systems. This book provides a useful resource for a researcher who wishes to learn about and apply the Drosophila model to tackle fundamental questions in cancer biology, and to find new ways to fight against this devastating disease.

Animal Models in Cancer Drug Discovery brings forward the most cutting-edge developments in tumor model systems for translational cancer research. The reader can find under this one volume virtually all types of existing and emerging tumor models in use by the research community. This book provides a deeper insight on how these newer models could de-risk modern drug discovery. Areas covered include up to date information on latest organoid derived models and newer genetic models. Additionally, the book discusses humanized animal tumor models for cancer immunotherapy and how they leverage personalized therapies. The chapter on larger animal, canine models and their use in and their use in pre-investigational new drug (pre-IND) development makes the volume unique. Unlike before, the incorporation of several simplified protocols, breeding methodologies, handling and assessment procedures to study drug intervention makes this book a must read. Animal Models in Cancer Drug Discovery is a valuable resource for basic and translational cancer researchers, drug discovery researchers, contract research organizations, and knowledge seekers at all levels in the biomedical field. - Encompasses discussions on innovative animal models, xenograft, genetic models, primary models, organoid systems, humanized and other models in modern biology paradigms that are enhancing research in the field of drug discover - Covers the use of these models in personalized medicine, immunotherapy, toxicology, pre-IND assessments and related drug development arenas - Presents protocols, procedures, and a comprehensive glossary to help new readers understand technical terms and specialized nomenclature

The nude, athymic mouse (nu/nu) has become generally accepted as a valuable tool to study the biology and therapy of human cancers. This volume presents a critical review of the scientific merits of the animal as a recipient of human tumor tissue transplants. Important information is provided regarding biology, immunology, and measures for genetic and microbiological control of the nude mouse. The discussion of transplantation sites and transplantability of human tumor tissue to the animals includes both the description of host factors and the tumor type involved. The characterization and monitoring of xenografts is followed by a review on their possible application for studies in tumor biology, such as hormones, growth factors, drug resistance, tumor markers, and heterogeneity. Experimental therapy is dedicated to cytostatic agents, hormones, monoclonal antibodies, cytokines, differentiation inducers and radiotherapy. The book also provides critical remarks regarding the limitation of the nude-mouse tumor models. The Nude Mouse in Oncology Research will provide essential reference information for oncology researchers, researchers who work with the nude mouse on a regular basis, and pharmaceutical companies.

This text highlights seminal discoveries and also provides comprehensive and state-of the-art approach to mouse models of human patient tumors. These areas include training, basic techniques, as well as general troubleshooting. Subsequent chapters focus on the different mouse models of patient tumors including the various strains of immunodeficient mice currently available and the transplantation techniques that can be used as well as state-of-the-art imaging techniques. Practical applications of the models from drug discovery, genome analysis to personalized treatment are also covered. Written by experts in that field, each of these sections address these critical issues. A brief review of the existing literature addressing the particular topic follows in each section.Presently, there is no single source to provide information on technique and uses of mouse models of human patient tumors. Patient-Derived Mouse Models of Cancer will satisfy this need for cancer researchers, oncologists, pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry scientists as well as molecular biologists studying in vivo systems

This volume focuses on defining the unique attributes of using the zebrafish cancer model for discovering important pathways and potential drug targets for the treatment of human cancers. Using the zebrafish model, the volume explores oncogene and tumor suppressor discovery, chemical genetic approaches, genomics, epigenetics, cancer imaging, and cell transplantation. Contributed chapters come from the most prominent laboratories working in this field, which provides a unique perspective on zebrafish models from a wide spectrum of the research community. In addition, the book offers a detailed analysis of the most current research in the area for specific zebrafish cancer models, including T cell leukemia, rhabdomyosarcoma, liver and pancreatic cancer, melanoma, neuroblastoma, germ cell tumors, and malignant peripheral sheath tumors. A chapter is also dedicated to the development and utilization of other piscine models of cancer. The compilation of chapters in the volume culminates into a comprehensive and definitive text on zebrafish and cancer, providing a much needed resource on the powerful attributes of the zebrafish model system.

Malignant neoplasms occurring in the biliary tract and pancreas remain a therap- tic challenge. The mechanism of carcinogenesis as well as the growth and spread of these tumors is still poorly understood, making the development of rational tre- ment strategies difficult. In order to improve the clinical results achieved by sur- cal or other medical treatment of such malignant tumors, the establishment of an experimental animal model is critical. For this purpose, attempts were made to induce carcinoma experimentally in the biliary tree and finally an animal model using the hamster was established in 1994 at our laboratory. Because the tumor in this model mimicked the characteristics of human tumors, a series of experimental investigations were conducted to clarify the pathological characteristics of biliary carcinoma, the genetic alterations during biliary carcinogenesis, and the relationship between biliary inflammation and c- cinogenesis. The chemopreventive effects on the occurrence of biliary carcinoma were also successfully examined. In addition, in vitro studies led to the establi- ment of transplantable biliary cancer cell lines and biliary epithelial cell lines by utilizing the hamster model. This monograph represents the collective efforts in hepato-biliary and pancreatic disease research over the past 20 years. I hope that this monograph will be a source of useful knowledge for basic researchers as well as for clinicians involved in the care of patients with hepato-biliary and pancreatic neoplasms. Takashi Kanematsu, M.D., Ph.D.