Scientists looking at the genetics of cancer cells say tumors, even of the same type of cancer, can vary remarkably from person to person. So, then, should their treatment. In this hour we'll look at the latest in cancer research, from gene therapy for melanoma, to cataloging the genes associated with colon cancer. What can genetic research tell us about new ways to attack cancer?

Plus, biologist and writer E.O. Wilson joins us to talk about his new book, "The Creation." Wilson's appeal to preserving biodiversity is written in the form of letters to a Southern Baptist minister. We'll talk with the scholar about his reasons for writing the book. (Note: New York area listeners can see Wilson in conversation with Ira Flatow at the New York Public Library, Thursday Sept 15.) Call in with your questions and comments at 1-800-989-8255 (3-4 Eastern). Teachers, find more information about using Science Friday as a classroom resource in the Kids' Connection.

Guests:
Steven Rosenberg
Head, Tumor Immunology Section
Branch Chief, Surgery Branch
National Cancer Institute
Bethesda, Maryland

Bert Vogelstein
Investigator, Howard Hughes Medical Institute
Director, Ludwig Center for Cancer Genetics & Therapeutics
Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center
Baltimore, Maryland

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E.O. Wilson
Author, "The Creation: An Appeal to Save Life on Earth" (W.W. Norton, 2006)
Pellegrino University Professor Emeritus
Harvard University
Cambridge, Massachusetts

Books/Articles Discussed:

"The Creation: An Appeal to Save Life on Earth" by Edward O. Wilson. W.W. Norton, 2006.

(find books discussed on previous broadcasts)

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This segment produced by Annette Heist