Insights into melanoma: targeting the mTOR pathway for therapeutics

• Type: Another Publication in an International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2012

Authors

Helena Populo (Author) Other; Paula Soares (Author) FMUP; Jose Manuel Lopes (Author) FMUP

Journal

Title: Expert Opinion on Therapeutic Targets

Vol. 16

Pages: 689-705

ISSN: 1472-8222

Publisher: Taylor & Francis

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 35 Citations

Scopus - 39 Citations

Scientific classification

FOS: Medical and Health sciences > Basic medicine

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-002-8N7

DOI: 10.1517/14728222.2012.691472

Abstract (EN): Introduction: Cutaneous melanoma represents <5% of all skin cancers, but is responsible for the majority of skin cancer-related deaths. Ocular melanoma is the most common primary eye tumor in adults, and accounts for approximately 5% of all melanomas. Despite new diagnostic and therapeutic tools, the overall survival of patients treated for melanoma has not improved and most patients die of metastatic disease. Therefore, clarification of the molecular mechanisms underlying the etiopathogenesis of cutaneous and ocular melanomas may help determining the prognosis and tailoring therapy of patients harboring melanomas. Areas covered: In this review the authors aim to survey relevant research in the molecular mechanisms underlying melanomagenesis, and therapies under evaluation with emphasis in the mTOR pathway. Expert opinion: Despite an increasingly understanding of the genetics and biochemistry of melanoma, the mechanisms underlying their complex interactions are still poorly understood. Their clarification will lead to more successful therapeutic strategies and evidence-based management of patients with melanoma. More active drug combinations together with appropriate melanoma patient stratification based on molecular biomarkers will be essential for new advances in melanoma therapy.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 17