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Emerging targeted therapies for melanoma treatment (Review)

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Date

2014-08

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Authors

Russo, Angela
Ficili, Bartolomea
Candido, Saverio
Pezzino, Franca Maria
Guarneri, Claudio
Biondi, Antonio
Travali, Salvatore
McCubrey, James A.
Spandidos Demetrios A.
Libra, Massimo

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Abstract

Cutaneous melanoma is an aggressive cancer with a poor prognosis for patients with advanced disease. The identification of several key molecular pathways implicated in the pathogenesis of melanoma has led to the development of novel therapies for this devastating disease. In melanoma, both the Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK (MAPK) and the PI3K/AKT (AKT) signalling pathways are constitutively activated through multiple mechanisms. Targeting various effectors of these pathways with pharmacologic inhibitors may inhibit melanoma cell growth and angiogenesis. Ongoing clinical trials provide hope to improve progression-free survival of patients with advanced melanoma. This review summarizes the most relevant studies focused on the specific action of these new molecular targeted agents. Mechanisms of resistance to therapy are also discussed.

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Citation

International Journal of Oncology; 45:2 p. 516-524

DOI

10.3892/ijo.2014.2481