ABSTRACT
Nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSCs) originate from cells other than melanocytes. Most of these arise from keratinocytes, which make up the vast majority of cells in the epidermis, or outer layer, of the skin. This group of cancers is very frequent in humans and is mostly caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The study of UV-induced skin cancers is referred to as photocarcinogenesis, and this can be investigated in small animal models. Mice are the most frequently used animal model for photocarcinogenesis as they provide a good mimic of human skin cancer. This chapter describes human skin cancers and their treatment. It also provides a practical guide for setting up a photocarcinogenesis laboratory. Molecular responses to UV can also be used as surrogate endpoints for photocarcinogenesis in animal models and humans. These can be used to develop preventative strategies. These molecular responses, which include genetic damage, disruptions to cell cycling and differentiation,
oncogenic signaling pathways, and immunosuppression, are also described in this chapter.
