Biology of Melanoma

Hematol Oncol Clin North Am. 2021 Feb;35(1):29-56. doi: 10.1016/j.hoc.2020.08.010. Epub 2020 Oct 26.

Abstract

Melanoma skin cancer is derived from skin melanocytes and has a high risk of metastatic spread. The era of molecular genetics and next-generation sequencing has uncovered the role of oncogenic BRAFV600E mutations in many melanomas, validated the role of ultraviolet-induced DNA mutations in melanoma formation, and uncovered many of the molecular events that occur during melanoma development. Targeted therapies and immunotherapy have dramatically improved outcomes and provided an increased rate of cure for metastatic melanoma. This article reviews the formation of melanoma, the molecular events involved in melanoma growth and metastasis, and the biology underlying resistance to melanoma therapies.

Keywords: AXL; Immunotherapy; MAPK; MITF; Melanocyte; Melanoma.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Carcinogenesis* / pathology
  • Drug Resistance, Neoplasm / genetics
  • Drug Resistance, Neoplasm / physiology
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy
  • Melanocytes* / pathology
  • Melanocytes* / physiology
  • Melanoma* / classification
  • Melanoma* / genetics
  • Melanoma* / physiopathology
  • Melanoma* / therapy
  • Microphthalmia-Associated Transcription Factor* / physiology
  • Skin Neoplasms* / classification
  • Skin Neoplasms* / genetics
  • Skin Neoplasms* / physiopathology
  • Skin Neoplasms* / therapy
  • Ultraviolet Rays / adverse effects

Substances

  • MITF protein, human
  • Microphthalmia-Associated Transcription Factor