The principles of neoplasia and oncology.

Cancer is a result of a series of complex occurrences leading to uncontrolled cell growth, including overcoming the key regulators of the cell cycle, invasion of local tissue, establishment of a blood supply and potential spread to distant sites. A potential role for the cancer stem cell in the process of invasion and spread is becoming apparent. Additionally, the importance of some viruses and infections in causing certain cancers is now well understood with the potential for effective vaccine strategies targeting both these pathogens, as well as tumor epitopes. The interplay of cancer biology and the immune system is an area of particular recent interest. A role of innate immune cells such as monocytes in driving cancer processes is now appreciated, while the potential of T cells in cancer surveillance and cytolysis has led to significant advances in medical therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]