The MAPK Pathway in Melanoma

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

Dysregulation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway has been associated with various neoplasms including melanomas. Common alterations in the MAPK pathway in melanomas include mutations in BRAF, EGFR, KIT, RAS, MEK, and ERK. The increased understanding of the biology and genetics of melanoma has generated interest in targeting the MAPK pathway for the treatment of melanoma. Vemurafenib, which targets the BRAF-V600E mutant protein, was the first FDA-approved drug for the treatment of patients with metastatic melanoma. In this chapter, we summarize the current understanding of the contributions of MAPK pathway alterations to melanoma development. We also discuss the association between mutations in particular genes and specific melanoma subtypes and the role of MAPK alterations in melanoma diagnosis. Therapeutic agents, in various stages of development, which target members of the MAPK pathway, are also discussed.
Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationGenetics of Melanoma
EditorsCarlos A. Torres-Cabala, Jonathan L. Curry
Place of PublicationNew York, NY
PublisherSpringer New York LLC
Pages151-163
Number of pages13
ISBN (Print)978-1-4939-3554-3
DOIs
StatePublished - 2016

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