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Updated: Apr 28, 2026
A 3D Organotypic Melanoma Spheroid Skin Model
Published on: May 18, 2018
Understanding the biology of melanoma and therapeutic implications
Ryan J Sullivan1, David E Fisher2
1Center for Melanoma, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
Abstract:
From 1976 to 2010, only 2 medications were approved for treating metastatic melanoma. Between 2011 and 2013, 4 agents were approved and other therapies have shown great promise in clinical trials. Fundamental discoveries, such as the identification of oncogenic mutations in most melanomas, the elucidation of the molecular signaling resulting from these mutations, and the revelation that several cell surface molecules serve as regulators of immune activation, have been instrumental in this progress. This article summarizes the molecular pathogenesis of melanoma, describes the current efforts to target oncogene-driven signaling, and presents the rationale for combining immune and molecular targeting.
Insights
Recent advances in understanding melanoma's molecular drivers and immune regulation have led to new targeted therapies. This review covers melanoma pathogenesis, current treatments, and the potential of combining immune and molecular targeting strategies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Melanoma treatment saw limited drug approvals until recently.
- Significant progress in understanding melanoma's molecular basis and immune interactions has occurred.
- Discoveries include oncogenic mutations, signaling pathways, and immune cell regulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the molecular pathogenesis of melanoma.
- To describe current strategies targeting oncogene-driven signaling.
- To present the rationale for combining immune and molecular therapies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of melanoma pathogenesis.
- Analysis of current targeted therapy approaches.
- Synthesis of information on immune and molecular targeting combination strategies.
Main Results:
- Multiple new therapeutic agents for metastatic melanoma have been approved since 2011.
- Understanding of melanoma's molecular drivers has rapidly advanced.
- Immune system's role in melanoma has been elucidated, revealing regulatory molecules.
Conclusions:
- Targeting oncogene-driven signaling is a key therapeutic strategy.
- Combining immune and molecular targeting holds significant promise for melanoma treatment.
- Continued research into melanoma's molecular and immune landscape is crucial for developing effective therapies.
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