Techniques and Methodological Approaches in Breast Cancer Research

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This book provides a detailed description of the most common techniques used in breast cancer research, with a special emphasis on the study of the normal breast as the basis for understanding the pathological processes in this organ. The authors have poured their experience in the field of breast cancer research into this book, and described the process of handling and interpreting the complex organ that is the human breast using original data and unique material collected over the years.  They have established the concept of normality of the human breast and the morphological parameters to be used for distinguishing the normal from the diseased breast. The quality of the breast tissue obtained from autopsy material vs. core biopsies are carefully detailed and discussed, showing the morphological differences among the specimens according to their collection site. The use of laser capture microdissection and tissue microarray is described in detail and discussed with special references to the problems faced when the normal breast is under study. A chapter dedicated to the use of breast cancer cell lines is crafted around the importance of each cell line and its particularities for in vitro studies. In addition, the authors explore the new concept that cancer originates from two main cell types, basal and luminal cells . Particular attention is given to the study of the phenotypes commonly used for determining cell transformation, either spontaneously or by induced chemical agents. A companion chapter using in vivo models provides the adequate tools for those interested in studying the early events of cancer initiation, progression and metastasis. Special emphasis is given to the analysis of cells either by Flow cytometry and immuno-fluorescence techniques and the great potential of the use of in situ hybridization to study RNA transcripts. The book also features an original analysis of the putative markers of stem cells in breast cancer using immuno-cytochemical techniques, their interpretation and correlation with the prognosis of the disease. The last two chapters of the book are engaged in the utilization of RNA and DNA sequencing techniques and their values in understanding the physiological differences in the human breast, as well as the utilization of epigenetic methodologies in the understanding of the normal human breast.The authors have established the methodological basis for studying the human breast in its normal and pathological conditions providing a unique set of tools and valuable references for researchers pursuing a deeper understanding of the human breast.