9 Facts About the BRAF Gene Mutation
Whether you’ve been diagnosed with metastatic melanoma, have a friend or family member in treatment for the condition, or have a family history of the cancer, it’s likely that you’ve heard of the BRAF gene mutation.
The presence of this particular gene mutation in those who have melanoma may change how the cancer is treated, so it’s helpful to know if it’s a factor. Here are 9 facts about the BRAF gene that can help you understand why it plays a role, and why it’s important in this particular cancer:
Everyone Has the BRAF Gene
BRAF is a gene that locks down a specific protein called B-Raf. This protein helps send signals inside your cells that are related to cell growth. Everyone has this gene, and when it’s working properly, it’s an important part of how cells operate.
But when it’s faulty in some way—sometimes known as “changed” or “mutated”—then it might work against the body, by allowing some cancers to grow or even playing a role in that growth process.
There Are 30 Mutations of the BRAF Gene Related to Cancers
Although BRAF mutation and its connection to cancer was only identified in 2002, research done since then has pinpointed at least 30 different types of mutation that could be associated with cancers.
The relationship between BRAF mutation and melanoma is particularly strong. The mutation doesn’t play much of a role in other common cancers like lung cancer.
Not All Melanomas Have BRAF Gene Mutations
About half of all melanomas have changes in the gene. For those who do have the mutation, recurrence rates may be a concern. Even after successful treatment of the initial melanoma, the gene mutation typically causes melanoma to start growing again eventually.
Because of this, your doctor may suggest a more frequent screening schedule if you’ve had melanoma and carry the gene mutation.
Treatment May Be Different for Those With BRAF Mutations
If you have a mutation in your BRAF gene, melanoma cells will be making an altered form of protein that helps them grow. If that’s the case, you will likely be treated with drugs that target this protein specifically.
These drug are vemurafenib (Zelboraf) and dabrafenib (Tafinlar). They are designed to attack the BRAF protein directly, to reduce tumor size and slow its growth.
According to the American Cancer Society, drugs that target the BRAF protein aren’t likely to work in patients whose melanomas have a normal BRAF gene.
Another Gene, MEK, May Also Be Part of the Mix
In addition to BRAF, there is a gene called MEK that may be a factor in your diagnosis and treatment.
The MEK gene works together with BRAF, so your oncologist may add MEK inhibitors to your treatment plan. These drugs are called trametinib (brand name Mekinist) and cobimetinib (Cotellic), which have both been shown to shrink some melanomas that are associated with BRAF mutations.
The American Cancer Society notes that a common approach is to combine a MEK inhibitor with a BRAF inhibitor. This seems to shrink tumors for a longer period of time, compared to either drug used on its own. But keep in mind your treatment plan will be unique to you, based on what you and your doctor decide as the best course of action.
Determination of BRAF Mutation Comes From a Biopsy
Genetic tests are usually performed using blood samples, although they might involve hair or skin. DNA can also be collected from a sample of cells inside the mouth, by smearing the interior of the cheek.
But the BRAF mutation can’t be pinpointed with any of these methods. Instead, it has to be done on a melanoma tumor tissue sample, which means you would need a biopsy. Sometimes, a biopsy is already done to verify the diagnosis and determine staging, so it’s possible you wouldn’t need a second biopsy for BRAF gene results.
You Don’t Necessarily Get it From Your Parents, and You May Not Pass it on
There are gene mutations related to melanoma that may be part of your family’s gene history. For example, the CDKN2A gene, which regulates cell division, is considered the most common cause of inherited melanoma.
The BRAF gene mutation, though, is often called a “non-inherited mutation,” which means you can have it even if no one else in your family did. It also means your kids won’t necessarily have it, just because it’s present in your DNA.
The BRAF Mutation May Play a Role in Other Cancers
Although it’s most associated with melanoma, the BRAF mutation may play a part in thyroid cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, and colorectal cancer. According to a report in the academic journal Biomarkers in Cancer, about 10 percent of colorectal cancer patients have a BRAF gene mutation.
Several clinical trials are ongoing to try and figure out the best treatment options for those with colorectal cancer who also have the BRAF gene mutation.
Clinical Trials Are an Option
According to the Melanoma International Foundation, there are many clinical trials related to melanoma, with some that involve the BRAF gene mutation.
The organization suggests visiting www.clinicaltrials.gov and searching on “melanoma” for a list of trials. You can also go to the group’s forum page at www.melanomaforum.org to hear about others’ experiences with trials.