Hormone Effects on Tumors

Abstract Multiple hormone systems, working independently and together, modulate tumor growth and serve as both agents and/or targets for cancer therapy. The hormones discussed in this chapter are those with major impact on tumor biology or therapy, including corticosteroids, estrogens, progestogens, androgens, insulin, insulin-like growth factors, growth hormone, leptin, adiponectin, visfatin, and retinol binding protein 4. Biochemistry and mechanisms of action of these hormones are discussed as they impact tumor systems in vitro, in vivo, and in patient systems including lymphohematopoietic malignancies, female cancers (breast, uterus, ovaries), prostate cancer, obesity-associated cancers, and some childhood malignancies. Hormonal therapy is addressed from the viewpoints of therapeutic targets, mechanisms of action, clinical responses, development of resistance, strategies for overcoming resistance, challenges, and opportunities for future developments.