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Characterize Disease-related Mutants of RAF Family Kinases by Using a Set of Practical and Feasible Methods
Published on: July 17, 2019
Do the Side Effects of BRAF Inhibitors Mimic RASopathies?
Alicia Sfecci1, Alain Dupuy2, Monica Dinulescu1
1Department of Dermatology, Pontchaillou Hospital, CHU de Rennes, Rennes, France.
Abstract:
Recent advances in targeted anticancer therapies have substantially improved the prognosis of several cancers. Such targeted therapies are not, however, free of side effects, and these side effects are clearly distinct from those induced by classical cytotoxic chemotherapies. This is likely so because targeted therapies are designed to interfere with specific oncogenic signaling pathways rather than to inhibit cell proliferation in general. In fact, interference with specific signaling pathways may lead to effects that mimic those associated with genetic disorders due to alterations in the corresponding signaling pathways. Here, we compare the clinical effects of treatment with BRAF inhibitors with those of genetic RASopathies and find a striking overlap between the inhibitor-induced, iatrogenic dermatoses with the genodermatoses seen in patients with corresponding congenital RASopathies. We hope that such comparisons lead to a better understanding of the side effects of targeted therapies.
Insights
Targeted cancer therapies, like BRAF inhibitors, cause side effects distinct from chemotherapy. These drug-induced skin conditions (iatrogenic dermatoses) strikingly resemble genetic skin disorders (genodermatoses) in RASopathies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
- Genetics
Background:
- Targeted anticancer therapies offer improved cancer prognoses but have unique side effects.
- These side effects differ from traditional chemotherapy and stem from interference with specific oncogenic signaling pathways.
- Pathway interference can lead to effects mimicking genetic disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the clinical effects of BRAF inhibitor treatment with genetic RASopathies.
- To investigate the overlap between drug-induced dermatoses and genodermatoses.
Main Methods:
- Clinical comparison of side effect profiles.
- Analysis of BRAF inhibitor-induced dermatoses.
- Comparison with congenital RASopathies and their associated genodermatoses.
Main Results:
- A striking overlap was observed between iatrogenic dermatoses from BRAF inhibitors and genodermatoses in RASopathies.
- Targeted therapies can induce effects mirroring congenital genetic disorders.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the link between targeted therapy side effects and genetic disorders deepens insight into drug mechanisms.
- This comparison aids in better understanding and managing side effects of novel cancer treatments.
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