Infection and inflammation

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The last two decades have highlighted the crucial role of the local microenvironment in cancer progression. Cancer arises not merely from mutations in individual cells but from a complex interplay involving tumor cells, inflammatory cells, stem cells, growth factors, cytokines, chemokines, and DNA-damaging agents. This book offers a comprehensive overview of how infections and chronic inflammatory conditions can lead to malignant phenotypes, a concept first proposed by Rudolf Virchow in 1863. Experts in the field discuss novel insights, including the involvement of stem cells and aneuploidy in carcinogenesis. It details specific pathogens linked to certain cancers, such as Helicobacter pylori with gastric neoplasia and schistosomiasis with bladder cancer. The mechanisms of carcinogenesis and the types of cells that can transform into malignant forms are thoroughly examined, with a focus on stem cells recently identified as contributors to cancer. Additional chapters explore the role of chemokines in metastasis and methods for visualizing metastasis in 3D models and living organisms. The growing understanding of the inflammatory microenvironment's impact on carcinogenesis will inform new anti-inflammatory strategies to combat tumor development. This book is vital for scientists and clinicians engaged in cancer research and prevention.