Molecular Pathology Laboratory Network

The identification of somatic mutations in gene encoding the serine-threonine protein kinase B-RAF (BRAF) in melanomas offers an opportunity to test oncogene-targeted therapy for this disease, according to a study funded by Plexxikon and Roche Pharmaceuticals.

Results from the study were published in the August 26 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine.  

According to the article, a group of researchers conducted a multicenter, phase 1, dose-escalation trial of PLX4032 (also known as RG7204), an orally available inhibitor of mutated BRAF, followed by an extension phase involving the maximum dose that could be administered without adverse effects (the recommended phase 2 dose).

A total of 55 patients (49 of whom had melanoma) were enrolled in the dose-escalation phase, and 32 additional patients with metastatic melanoma who had BRAF with the V600E mutation were enrolled in the extension phase. Treatment of metastatic melanoma with PLX4032 in patients with tumors that carry the V600E BRAF mutation resulted in complete or partial tumor regression in the majority of patients.

BRAF Mutation Analysis is offered by MPLN as an independent predictor of patient responsiveness to EGFR inhibitor therapy. For more information about this test, contact a client service specialist at 800-932-2943.