Decoding the Molecular Mechanisms of BRAF ^V600E-Induced Nevi Formation

Melanocytes derived from neural crest cells harbor the BRAF ^V600E mutation, which is the predominant driver of nevus formation in humans. This mutation leads to malignant cell proliferation and subsequent cell cycle arrest, culminating in oncogene-induced senescence and nevus development. Nevertheless, emerging evidence has highlighted the heterogeneity of cellular senescence markers in BRAF ^V600E-induced senescent melanocytes. Moreover, the capacity of melanocytes within nevi to regain their proliferative ability raises questions about the molecular mechanisms by which BRAF ^V600E, via the mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway, triggers nevus formation. This study provides an overview and discussion of the molecular mechanisms underpinning BRAF ^V600E-induced melanocyte nevus formation and the relevant animal models employed for their elucidation. It also highlights the significance of elucidating dynamic changes in cytoplasmic and nuclear substrates that interact with phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated protein kinases 1 and 2 and underscores the value of using targeted BRAF ^V600E animal models created through gene editing technologies.