Fundamentals of Cancer Biology

Catalog description

Tumorigenesis is a multistep process driven by genetic and molecular changes that occur over time. Although cancer is a heterogeneous disease, many human tumors exhibit similar acquired physiological features. This course employs an integrated approach to teach the fundamentals of cancer biology with focus on the role of growth factors, oncogenes, tumor suppressor genes, and signal transduction mechanisms in tumor formation. Building on this foundational knowledge, subsequent sessions address the multistep nature of tumorigenesis as well as the role played by the tumor microenvironment as tumors progress and spread. Current topics on bioinformatics and therapeutic management are covered in the last week of the course.