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A PAX3/BRN2 rheostat controls the dynamics of BRAF mediated MITF regulation in MITF high /AXL low melanoma
Author(s) -
Smith Michael P.,
Rana Sareena,
Ferguson Jennifer,
Rowling Emily J.,
Flaherty Keith T.,
Wargo Jennifer A.,
Marais Richard,
Wellbrock Claudia
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
pigment cell and melanoma research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.618
H-Index - 105
eISSN - 1755-148X
pISSN - 1755-1471
DOI - 10.1111/pcmr.12741
Subject(s) - microphthalmia associated transcription factor , mapk/erk pathway , transcription factor , cancer research , pax3 , melanoma , regulator , biology , kinase , microbiology and biotechnology , genetics , gene
Abstract The BRAF kinase and the MAPK pathway are targets of current melanoma therapies. However, MAPK pathway inhibition results in dynamic changes of downstream targets that can counteract inhibitor‐action not only in during treatment, but also in acquired resistant tumours. One such dynamic change involves the expression of the transcription factor MITF, a crucial regulator of cell survival and proliferation in untreated as well as drug‐addicted acquired resistant melanoma. Tight control over MITF expression levels is required for optimal melanoma growth, and while it is well established that the MAPK pathway regulates MITF expression, the actual mechanism is insufficiently understood. We reveal here, how BRAF through action on the transcription factors BRN2 and PAX3 executes control over the regulation of MITF expression in a manner that allows for considerable plasticity. This plasticity provides robustness to the BRAF mediated MITF regulation and explains the dynamics in MITF expression that are observed in patients in response to MAPK inhibitor therapy.