Toxicological carcinogenesis (2003)

Clayson, DB. Toxicological carcinogenesis. Boca Raton, FL: Lewis Publishers, 2001. Price: $119.00. Basic and clinical research in the field of chemical carcinogenesis has led to many major advances, ranging from the fields of epidemiology and international human studies to laboratory research on mechanisms involved in the complex processes that are associated with the initiation and development of malignant disease. Toxicological Carcinogenesis provides a concise overview of the steps involved in cancer causation and development. Dr. David B. Clayson, the author of this 208-page work, is a well-known researcher in this field. He performed noteworthy research as a pioneer in the field of chemoprevention, elucidating the mode of action of antioxidants, which antagonize the effects of carcinogens and promoters. Dr. Clayson also has a reputation as a writer; along with Dr. Philippe Shubik, he was a founding editor of the journal Cancer Letters. In 1962, he published a major monograph of 467 pages entitled Chemical Carcinogenesis, which was considered the bible by many in the field and was used as a teaching manual. Dr. Clayson's current monograph contains an introduction that deals with the questions, “What causes cancer?” and, “What is cancer?” Subsequent chapters deal with investigations of cancer causation, proceeding from human studies onward through epidemiology and standard animal bioassays of carcinogens. Next, the author critically evaluates short-term methods for identifying carcinogens. Clayson mentions the Ames test involving genotoxic, DNA-reactive carcinogens that are detected as mutagens in strains of Salmonella typhimurium, but he fails to discuss the induction of DNA repair in freshly explanted liver cells (including human liver cells); this latter method appears to be one of the more effective rapid bioassays for the detection and quantitation of carcinogens. The author goes on to explore human exposure to carcinogens in subchapters such as Exposures at the Work Place, and especially Cigarette Smoking, which Clayson calls a “modern plague.” Clayson also briefly discusses nutritional elements, pharmaceuticals, and the general environment as risk factors. Toxicological Carcinogenesis contains a commentary on rodent carcinogenesis bioassays; this commentary is subdivided into specific sections on various known animal carcinogens. The main chapter, entitled “Reducing the Risk of Cancer,” deals with the mechanisms of carcinogenesis, including the metabolic conversion of carcinogens to electrophilic reactants and the generation of reactive oxygen species. The role of covalent binding to cellular macromolecules, including to proteins and DNA, of such activated genotoxic is considered, and the importance of cellular proliferation in the development of cancer, is emphasized. In a major chapter on risk assessment, the author reviews historical issues, including the failure of legislation, such as the obsolete Delaney Clause, to have an effect in protecting the public, and he reviews the underlying reasons for this failure. In addition, there are commentaries on the roles of legislation, regulation, and education, and the final chapter deals with cancer control today and the direction in which this field should proceed. The monograph concludes with an index of seven pages, from acetylaminofluorene to X-rays. Dr. Clayson began writing Toxicological Carcinogenesis but passed away before its completion. The final drafts were edited by his wife, Marjorie, who was his constant companion and copilot for more than 40 years. Toxicological Carcinogenesis is a valuable addition to the body of literature in the field of carcinogenesis. In addition, at a cost of 58 cents per page, it is affordable. Most individuals in the field of cancer causation and prevention, including epidemiologists, laboratory scientists, and managers of interactive, multidisciplinary programs all over the world, would benefit from having access to the concisely and lucidly presented information in this text.