BRAF: A Two-Faced Janus

• Main Authors: Pasquale Pisapia, Francesco Pepe, Antonino Iaccarino, Roberta Sgariglia, Mariantonia Nacchio, Gianluca Russo, Gianluca Gragnano, Umberto Malapelle, Giancarlo Troncone
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2020-11-01
• Series: Cells
• Subjects: predictive molecular pathology; prognostic biomarker; BRAF; molecular oncology
• Online Access: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4409/9/12/2549

Gain-of-function of V-Raf Murine Sarcoma Viral Oncogene Homolog B (<i>BRAF</i>) is one of the most frequent oncogenic mutations in numerous cancers, including thyroid papillary carcinoma, melanoma, colon, and lung carcinomas, and to a lesser extent, ovarian and glioblastoma multiforme. This mutation aberrantly activates the mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase extracellular signal-regulated kinase (MEK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling pathway, thereby eliciting metastatic processes. The relevance of <i>BRAF</i> mutations stems from its prognostic value and, equally important, from its relevant therapeutic utility as an actionable target for personalized treatment. Here, we discuss the double facets of <i>BRAF</i>. In particular, we argue the need to implement diagnostic molecular algorithms that are able to detect this biomarker in order to streamline and refine diagnostic and therapeutic decisions.