Molecular and cell biological aspects of neuroendocrine tumors of the gastroenteropancreatic system

Neurons and neuroendocrine cells share a variety of common characteristics. Cell and molecular biological studies in recent years have improved our understanding of physiological and pathophysiological processes such as cellular growth, adhesion, and secretion of neuroendocrine cells. Here we review current findings from the area of basic research and from current clinical research relevant to improving the diagnosis and therapy of neuroendocrine tumors of the gastroenteropancreatic system.