Modification of Radiation Response: Cytokines, Growth Factors, and Other Biological Targets (Medical Radiology)

This book describes and summarizes the radiation responses of both normal and neoplastic tissues with a focus on rational strategies for the modification of these responses. Emerging data from molecular oncology and radiobiology that form the basis for a better understanding of radiation-induced reactions and key features of malignant growth are reviewed. Special emphasis is placed on the role of cytokines and growth factors as well as signal transduction pathways. A unique feature of the book is that it has been written in close collaboration by basic scientists, radiobiologists, and radiation oncologists. Therefore it covers not only general principles of radiation-induced reactions but also a large number of preclinical and clinical data that will guide the reader through this complex and dynamic field and will provide valuable information for the development of further research projects. Many of the data reviewed in this book form a sound basis for further improvement of state-of-the art radiation therapy by integrating biological information into the process of treatment planning and delivery. Front Matter....Pages i-x Front Matter....Pages 1-1 The Potential Role of Signaling Proteins in the Acceleration of Repopulation in Normal and Malignant Tissues....Pages 3-13 Role of Radiation-Induced Signaling Proteins in the Response of Vascular and Connective Tissues....Pages 15-28 Pathogenetic Mechanisms of Lung Fibrosis....Pages 29-36 Strategies for Modification of the Radiation Response of the Lung....Pages 37-48 Mechanisms and Modification of the Radiation Response of Gastrointestinal Organs....Pages 49-72 Mechanisms and Modification of the Radiation Response of the Central Nervous System....Pages 73-87 Hematopoietic Tissue I: Response Modification by Erythropoietin....Pages 89-101 Hematopoietic Tissue II: Role of Colony-Stimulating Factors....Pages 103-111 Oral Mucosa: Response Modification by Keratinocyte Growth Factor....Pages 113-122 Front Matter....Pages 123-123 Role of Growth Factors in Tumor Growth and Progression of Gynecological Tumors....Pages 125-138 Growth Factor Expression in Central Nervous System Tumours....Pages 139-146 Role of Growth Factors and Biological Response Modifiers in Lung, Head and Neck and Gastrointestinal Tumors....Pages 147-155 Role of Signaling Pathway Modification....Pages 157-178 Anti-VEGF Strategies in Combination with Radiotherapy....Pages 179-188 Role of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor and Its Inhibition in Radiotherapy....Pages 189-204 Enhancement of the Radiation Response with Interleukins and Interferons....Pages 205-226 Enhancement of Radiation Response with TNF/TRAIL....Pages 227-240 Role of Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and Its Inhibition in Tumor Biology and Radiotherapy....Pages 241-258 Ras Signaling and Its Inhibition with Farnesyltransferase Inhibitors: Effects on Radiation Resistance and the Tumor Microenvironment....Pages 259-274 Back Matter....Pages 275-284