BRAF mutations in non-small cell lung cancer: has finally Janus opened the door?

Publication date: Available online 27 February 2016
Source:Critical Reviews in Oncology/Hematology
Author(s): Rafael Caparica, Gilberto de Castro, Ignacio Gil-Bazo, Christian Caglevic, Raffaele Calogero, Marco Giallombardo, Edgardo S. Santos, Luis E. Raez, Christian Rolfo
B-Raf mutations occur in about 1–2% of non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC). These mutations generate a permanent activation of the mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, which promotes tumor growth and proliferation. In the present review, we discuss B-Raf mutation epidemiology, diagnostic methods to detect B-Raf mutations, the role of B-Raf as a driver mutation and a potential therapeutic target in NSCLC. The results of clinical trials involving B-Raf or MAPK pathway inhibitors for the treatment of NSCLC are also discussed. Clinical trials evaluating B-Raf inhibitors in BRAF mutated NSCLC patients have shown promising results, and larger prospective studies are warranted to validate these findings. Enrollment of these patients in clinical trials is an interesting strategy to offer a potentially more effective and less toxic targeted therapy.



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