How long do BRAF and MEK inhibitors work?

2012b]. The rapid antitumor responses observed with BRAF or MEK inhibitor monotherapy are not long lasting in most cases (although in a minority can last for over 5 years) due to the development of acquired resistance with progression after a period of objective tumor response.

What is BRAF and MEK?

The BRAF and MEK genes are known to play a role in cell growth, and mutations of these genes are common in several types of cancer. Approximately half of all melanomas carry a specific BRAF mutation known as V600E. This mutation produces an abnormal version of the BRAF kinase that stimulates cancer growth.

What is an appropriate first line treatment option for BRAF negative metastatic melanoma?

Combination immunotherapy with a programmed death (PD)-1 inhibitor, such as nivolumab or pembrolizumab, plus the cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 inhibitor ipilimumab is now considered the best choice for first-line systemic therapy for BRAF-negative advanced melanoma.

Why are BRAF and MEK inhibitors given together?

Expert opinion: Combination therapy with BRAF and MEK inhibitors dramatically improves response rates, progression-free survival and overall survival in patients with BRAF-mutant metastatic melanoma compared to historical treatments such as chemotherapy.

What is MEK in melanoma?

Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MEK) inhibitors to treat melanoma alone or in combination with other kinase inhibitors.

Is BRAF inhibitor immunotherapy?

One of the first combination BRAF inhibitor plus immunotherapy studies was a pilot trial of vemurafenib with adoptive cell therapy (ACT) in patients with advanced, BRAF mutant melanoma. This regimen was well-tolerated overall, with similar toxicity to that seen with vemurafenib or standard TIL therapy alone (29).

What is Dabrafenib and Trametinib?

Dabrafenib (Tafinlar) and Trametinib (Mekinist) Dabrafenib and trametinib are types of targeted cancer drugs called cancer growth blockers. They are used together to treat: melanoma skin cancer that can’t be removed with surgery (unresectable) or has spread to other areas of the body (metastatic or advanced melanoma)

How do BRAF and MEK inhibitors work?

This gene works with the BRAF gene to provide instructions for making MEK1, a protein kinase that helps control proper cell growth and division. Inhibitors have been developed that target the BRAF and MEK genes.

How do MEK inhibitors work?

MEK inhibitors selectively bind to a unique site near the ATP (the principal molecule for storing and transferring energy in cells) binding pocket of the protein kinase that further inhibits the kinase function of this protein by inducing conformational changes that limit the movement of the activation loop by which …