Scientists Unravel Pathway in Skin Cancer Development
29th August 2005 - Dr Richard Marais’ team have unravelled the role of a gene important in the development of the deadliest form of skin cancer, malignant melanoma. The team found that a damaged version of a gene called B-RAF blocks an important pathway involved in preventing the growth of cancer cells.
The B-RAF gene is damaged in around 7 out of 10 melanomas, and is one of the earliest events leading to skin cancer. However, B-RAF is essential for healthy cells to function, so completely eliminating this gene is not a simple treatment option.
This new research showed that when the B-RAF gene is damaged, it suppresses the production of another protein called MITF. MITF blocks melanoma cell division, so consequently when B-RAF is damaged, tumours develop more easily.
By regulating the relationship between the B-RAF protein and the pathway in human cells, the researchers were able to significantly slow cell growth. This could lead to improved treatments for skin cancer in the future.
Find out more about Dr Marais' research.
