Cancer remains one of the most complex challenges in modern medicine, demanding a solid understanding of its biological foundations. This textbook offers a clear and structured approach to cancer development, progression, and therapeutic response, effectively bridging molecular mechanisms with clinical practice. Readers gain in-depth insight into oncogenes and tumor suppressors, multistep tumorigenesis, the tumor microenvironment, metastasis, cancer immunology, and the rapidly expanding field of targeted and precision therapies. Designed with a strong didactic concept, the book features informative boxed sections highlighting key concepts, numerous high-quality illustrations, and a comprehensive glossary of technical terms. Its scaffolded structure guides learners from fundamental principles to advanced applications, making it particularly well suited for students. Based on Prof. Carsten Carlberg&s long-standing lecture course "Cancer Biology," taught for many years at the University of Eastern Finland, and enriched by Dr. Eunike Velleuer&s clinical expertise, the book combines academic rigor with clinical relevance.
The completely revised and expanded second edition includes new content on DNA methylation&based tumor classification, liquid biopsies, cancer epigenomics, aging as a cancer risk factor, sex differences, and cancer survivorship. Cancer Biology: How Science Works is an essential resource for students, practitioners, and anyone seeking a clear and scientifically grounded understanding of cancer and its clinical implications.