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Updates and challenges on treatment with BRAF/MEK-inhibitors in melanoma

Zeynep Eroglu1, Alpaslan Ozgun1

  • 1The Department of Cutaneous Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, 10920 McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL, USA.

Expert Opinion on Orphan Drugs
|December 22, 2018
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Targeted therapy combining BRAF and MEK inhibitors improves outcomes for advanced melanoma. Ongoing research aims to overcome acquired resistance and prolong responses in BRAF-mutant melanoma patients.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Dermatology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Targeted therapy, including BRAF and MEK inhibitors, has improved outcomes for advanced melanoma with BRAFV600 mutations.
  • While effective, acquired resistance to these targeted therapies is a significant clinical challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review recent clinical trial updates and ongoing studies of targeted therapy for BRAF-V600 mutant melanoma.
  • To discuss strategies for overcoming resistance and improving long-term outcomes.

Main Methods:

  • Review of recent clinical trial data and ongoing studies.
  • Analysis of treatment outcomes, response rates, and survival data.

Main Results:

  • BRAF and MEK inhibitor combinations demonstrate improved response rates and prolonged progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS).
  • Acquired resistance remains a limitation, necessitating further research.

Conclusions:

  • BRAF targeted therapy is an effective treatment for BRAF-mutant melanoma.
  • Ongoing trials are exploring novel combinations with other targeted agents and immunotherapeutics to enhance durability of response.
  • Increased utilization in neoadjuvant and adjuvant settings is being investigated.
Keywords:
BRAFMEKcombination therapymelanoma

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