The CCN Proteins are thought to play key roles in the biology of normal cell, tissue, organ, and body, and altered expression of CCN proteins is associated with several pathologies, including fibrosis and cancer. Because of its importance, the CCN field is expanding at a fast pace. Research articles in this field have recently increased logarithmically, and a book that is up-to-date, comprehensive, authoritative and affords insights into the biological roles of CCN proteins, is timely.CCN Protein: A New Family of Cell Growth and Differentiation Regulators presents the most recent progress in the field of CCN proteins, a new family of secretory signaling molecules that are involved in several fundamental biological progress. These proteins share a unique multimodular organization and present a partial identity with four families of regulatory proteins controling growth and development. The book covers the roles of CCN proteins in the control of cell proliferation and differentiation during normal development, wound repair, chondrogenesis and bone development, angiogenesis, tissue regeneration, fibrosis, renal diseases and cancer development.

The CCN family of genes currently comprises six secreted proteins (designated CCN16 i.e., Cyr61/CCN1; ctgf/CCN2; Nov/CCN3; WISP1/CCN4; WISP2/CCN5, and WISP3/CCN6) showing a strikingly conserved primary structure, with four modules sharing partial identity with IGF binding proteins, Von Willebrand protein, thrombospondin and several matricellular proteins and growth factors. The current view is that CCN proteins modulate signaling pathways that involve regulatory components of the extracellular matrix. As such, they likely act as a central hub in the regulation of mitosis, adhesion, apoptosis, extracellular matrix production, growth arrest and migration of multiple cell types. The 5th international workshop on the CCN family of genes, that was held in Toronto in 2008 brought together scientists from around the world who have an interest in the biological roles of this emerging family of proteins. On an educational point of view, the workshop was a unique place for an efficient diffusion of scientific information. The present book comprises a series of selected manuscripts that are based on the original communications that were presented at the meeting by worldwide leaders in the field of CCN biology. All major aspects of CCN proteins biology in both normal and pathological conditions are covered in this volume, from structure-functions analysis up to the involvement of CCN proteins in complex physiological functions. In addition to reports that support the Yin-Yang concept of CCN proteins driving opposite effects on the same biological process, this book also comprises several contributions that point to CCN proteins as amenable targets for therapeutic manipulation of disease processes. Together with the special issue of Journal of Cell Communication and Signaling in which authors have extended on the original data presented at the meeting, the present Proceedings provide an instant picture and unique update of the state of the art in the CCN field.

The CCN family of genes currently comprises six secreted proteins (designated CCN16 i.e., Cyr61/CCN1; ctgf/CCN2; Nov/CCN3; WISP1/CCN4; WISP2/CCN5, and WISP3/CCN6) showing a strikingly conserved primary structure, with four modules sharing partial identity with IGF binding proteins, Von Willebrand protein, thrombospondin and several matricellular proteins and growth factors. The current view is that CCN proteins modulate signaling pathways that involve regulatory components of the extracellular matrix. As such, they likely act as a central hub in the regulation of mitosis, adhesion, apoptosis, extracellular matrix production, growth arrest and migration of multiple cell types. The 5th international workshop on the CCN family of genes, that was held in Toronto in 2008 brought together scientists from around the world who have an interest in the biological roles of this emerging family of proteins. On an educational point of view, the workshop was a unique place for an efficient diffusion of scientific information. The present book comprises a series of selected manuscripts that are based on the original communications that were presented at the meeting by worldwide leaders in the field of CCN biology. All major aspects of CCN proteins biology in both normal and pathological conditions are covered in this volume, from structure-functions analysis up to the involvement of CCN proteins in complex physiological functions. In addition to reports that support the Yin-Yang concept of CCN proteins driving opposite effects on the same biological process, this book also comprises several contributions that point to CCN proteins as amenable targets for therapeutic manipulation of disease processes. Together with the special issue of Journal of Cell Communication and Signaling in which authors have extended on the original data presented at the meeting, the present Proceedings provide an instant picture and unique update of the state of the art in the CCN field.

This second edition volume expands on the previous edition with updated methodologies and practical tips to overcome obstacles associated with experimentation pertaining to chemistry, biology, physiology, pathology, medical and dental sciences, and pharmacology of CCN proteins. The chapters in this book cover topics such as CCN4 immunofluorescence for tissue microarray; utilizing public molecular biological databases for CCN family research; the effects of CCN4 on pancreatic beta cell proliferation; gene expression analysis of CCNs; novel cell biological assays for measuring bone remodeling activities of CCN proteins; and the function of CCN2 in tubular epithelium cells with a focus on renal fibrogenesis. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Cutting-edge and comprehensive, CCN Proteins: Methods and Protocols, Second Edition is a valuable resource for experienced CCN researchers looking for new approaches and novice researchers just starting out in the field of CCN research.

This volume contains the lectures held at the International Symposium on Cancer "New Trends in Cancer for the 21st Century". Fundamental researchers, politicians and representatives from patient coalitions share their knowledge and interests as well as their concerns and experiences. Not only do these papers provide state-of-the-art information on cancer, they are also an opportunity to look at the problem from different points of view.

This book points to some new areas for investigation on squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Firstly, the features and management of some specific SCC is discussed to give the readers the general principles in dealing with these uncommon and sophisticated conditions. Some new concepts in adjuvant therapy including neoadjuvant therapy and gold nanoparticle-based photo dynamic therapy are introduced. Secondly, a detailed discussion of molecular aspects of tumor invasion and progression in SCC is provided with the emphasis on the roles of some important factors. The role of tumor microenvironment in head and neck SCC is specifically discussed. Thirdly, the roles of cancer stem cells (CSC) in cancer therapy of SCC are described. Molecular mechanisms involving therapeutic resistance and new therapeutic strategies targeting CSC are discussed in detail. Finally, other aspects concerning SCC are included, which involve the assessment, genetic manipulation and its possible clinical implications for the treatment of SCC.

Arthritis has a high prevalence globally and includes over 100 different types, the most common of which are rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and inflammatory arthritis. The exact etiology of arthritis remains unclear and no cure exists. Anti-inflammatory drugs are commonly used in the treatment of arthritis but are associated with significant side effects. Novel modes of therapy and additional prognostic biomarkers are urgently needed for arthritis patients. This book summarizes and discusses the global picture of the current understanding of arthritis.