PubReading [167] - Molecular Biology and Evolution of Cancer: From Discovery to Action - J. Somarelli, J. Townsend et al

<p><strong>Cancer progression</strong> is an evolutionary process. During this process, evolving cancer cell populations encounter restrictive <strong>ecological niches</strong> within the body, such as the primary tumor, circulatory system, and diverse <strong>metastatic</strong> sites. Efforts to prevent or delay cancer evolution—and progression—require a deep understanding of the underlying molecular evolutionary processes. Herein we discuss a suite of concepts and tools from evolutionary and ecological theory that can inform <strong>cancer biology</strong> in new and meaningful ways. We also highlight current challenges to applying these concepts, and propose ways in which incorporating these concepts could identify new therapeutic modes and vulnerabilities in cancer.</p><p><em>doi:10.1093/molbev/msz242 - 2019</em></p>