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0
Mappings
0
Definitions
0
Inheritance
4
Pathophysiology
1
Histopathology
6
Phenotypes
4
Pathograph
3
Genes
4
Treatments
0
Subtypes
0
Differentials
0
Datasets
0
Trials
0
Models
12
References
1
Deep Research
🏷

Classifications

Harrison's Chapter
cancer solid tumor
ICD-O Morphology
Melanoma

Pathophysiology

4
NRAS Q61 Oncogenic Mutation
NRAS mutations at codon 61 (Q61R, Q61K, Q61L) impair intrinsic GTPase activity and reduce sensitivity to GTPase-activating proteins (GAPs), resulting in constitutively GTP-bound active NRAS. This locks the protein in its active conformation, continuously stimulating downstream effector pathways.
melanocyte link
signal transduction link ↑ INCREASED
Show evidence (2 references)
PMID:40023845 PARTIAL
"Hotspot BRAF, hotspot NRAS, and NF1 loss-of-function mutations are found in"
This abstract reports hotspot NRAS mutations in a substantial fraction of cutaneous melanomas, supporting the NRAS-mutant subtype.
PMID:28851243 SUPPORT Human Clinical
"Activating NRAS mutations occur in approximately 15-20% of melanomas and are the"
Confirms NRAS mutation prevalence at 15-20% and its status as the second most common oncogenic driver in melanoma.
Dual MAPK and PI3K Pathway Activation
Unlike BRAF mutations that primarily activate MAPK signaling, oncogenic NRAS simultaneously activates both the RAF-MEK-ERK (MAPK) pathway and the PI3K-AKT pathway. This dual pathway activation contributes to the aggressive biology and relative treatment resistance of NRAS-mutant melanoma.
MAPK cascade link ↑ INCREASED
Show evidence (1 reference)
PMID:35294522 SUPPORT Human Clinical
"Enhanced MAPK pathway signaling and cell-cycle checkpoint dysregulation"
Confirms enhanced MAPK signaling as a frequent feature of NRAS-mutant melanoma, supporting the dual pathway activation concept.
Uncontrolled Melanocyte Proliferation
Constitutive MAPK pathway activation downstream of mutant NRAS drives melanocyte proliferation through ERK-mediated transcriptional programs promoting cell cycle entry and progression.
melanocyte link
cell population proliferation link ↑ INCREASED
skin of body link
Enhanced Cell Survival
PI3K-AKT pathway activation downstream of NRAS promotes melanoma cell survival through phosphorylation and inactivation of pro-apoptotic proteins, activation of mTOR signaling, and metabolic reprogramming. This contributes to therapy resistance and the need for combination treatment strategies.
apoptotic process link ↓ DECREASED

Histopathology

1
Melanocytic Neoplasm VERY_FREQUENT
Malignant melanoma represents a neoplasm stemming from melanocytes.
Show evidence (1 reference)
PMID:27268913 PARTIAL
"Malignant melanoma represents a neoplasm stemming from melanocytes"
Abstract defines melanoma as a neoplasm stemming from melanocytes.

Pathograph

Use the checkboxes to hide or show graph categories. Hover nodes for evidence and cross-linked metadata.
Pathograph: causal mechanism network for NRAS Mutant Melanoma Interactive directed graph showing how pathophysiology mechanisms, phenotypes, genetic factors and variants, experimental models, environmental triggers, and treatments relate through causal and linked edges.

Phenotypes

6
Cardiovascular 1
Lymphadenopathy Lymphadenopathy (HP:0002716)
Show evidence (1 reference)
PMID:28797232 SUPPORT Human Clinical
"higher frequency of nodal relapse"
Routine-care melanoma cohort directly links NRAS-mutant melanoma with nodal relapse, supporting lymph node involvement as a phenotype.
Integument 3
Cutaneous Melanoma OBLIGATE Cutaneous melanoma (HP:0012056)
Show evidence (1 reference)
PMID:28851243 SUPPORT Human Clinical
"Activating NRAS mutations occur in approximately 15-20% of melanomas and are the"
Confirms NRAS mutations as the second most common driver in cutaneous melanoma.
Pigmented Skin Lesion VERY_FREQUENT Neoplasm of the skin (HP:0008069)
Abnormal Skin Pigmentation VERY_FREQUENT Abnormality of skin pigmentation (HP:0001000)
Neoplasm 1
Neoplasm of the Lung Neoplasm of the lung (HP:0100526)
Show evidence (1 reference)
PMID:28787433 SUPPORT Human Clinical
"NRAS mutation was associated with lung metastasis"
Prospective cutaneous melanoma cohort directly associates NRAS mutation status with lung metastasis.
Other 1
Brain Neoplasm Brain neoplasm (HP:0030692)
Show evidence (1 reference)
PMID:28787433 SUPPORT Human Clinical
"central nervous system (CNS) metastasis"
Cohort study reports an association between NRAS mutation and CNS metastasis; the HPO brain neoplasm term is used as the closest available phenotype for melanoma brain metastasis.
🧬

Genetic Associations

3
NRAS Q61R (Somatic Oncogenic Mutation)
Show evidence (1 reference)
PMID:40023845 SUPPORT Human Clinical
"Hotspot BRAF, hotspot NRAS, and NF1 loss-of-function mutations are found in"
Confirms hotspot NRAS mutations are present in approximately 25% of cutaneous melanomas.
NRAS Q61K (Somatic Oncogenic Mutation)
NRAS Q61L (Somatic Oncogenic Mutation)
💊

Treatments

4
MEK Inhibitors
Action: targeted therapy Ontology label: Targeted Therapy NCIT:C93352
Agent: binimetinib trametinib
MEK inhibitors (binimetinib, trametinib) have demonstrated modest activity in NRAS-mutant melanoma. The NEMO trial showed binimetinib improved progression-free survival compared to dacarbazine (median PFS 2.8 vs 1.5 months). Response rates are lower than in BRAF-mutant disease, but MEK inhibition represents one of the few targeted options for this molecular subtype.
Show evidence (4 references)
PMID:28284557 SUPPORT Human Clinical
"dacarbazine and was tolerable. Binimetinib might represent a new treatment"
The landmark NEMO phase 3 trial demonstrates binimetinib efficacy in NRAS-mutant melanoma with improved PFS over dacarbazine.
PMID:32100585 SUPPORT Human Clinical
"almost doubled median progression-free survival when compared to dacarbazine in"
Confirms binimetinib nearly doubled PFS vs dacarbazine in NRAS-mutant melanoma.
PMID:28587477 SUPPORT Human Clinical
"recent Phase III trial rendered binimetinib the first targeted therapy agent to"
Confirms binimetinib as the first targeted therapy to significantly improve PFS in NRAS-mutant melanoma.
+ 1 more reference
Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors
Action: immunotherapy Ontology label: Immunotherapy NCIT:C15262
Anti-PD-1 antibodies (pembrolizumab, nivolumab) alone or combined with anti-CTLA-4 (ipilimumab) are the primary treatment for advanced NRAS-mutant melanoma. NRAS-mutant tumors may have higher tumor mutational burden, potentially enhancing immunotherapy responsiveness.
Show evidence (3 references)
PMID:36873887 SUPPORT Human Clinical
"cutaneous melanoma demonstrated an increased likelihood of partial or complete"
Meta-analysis of 1770 patients shows NRAS-mutant melanoma may have higher ICI response rates compared to NRAS-wildtype, supporting immunotherapy use.
PMID:28587477 SUPPORT Human Clinical
"NRAS-mutated melanoma still face limited therapeutic options, with immunotherapy"
Confirms immunotherapy as the standard treatment for NRAS-mutant melanoma given limited targeted therapy options.
PMID:28851243 SUPPORT Human Clinical
"There is an unmet medical need for new targeted therapy opportunities"
Highlights the lack of targeted therapies and the dependence on immunotherapy for NRAS-mutant melanoma treatment.
Combination Targeted Therapy
Action: targeted therapy Ontology label: Targeted Therapy NCIT:C93352
Agent: ribociclib binimetinib
Clinical trials are investigating combinations targeting both MAPK and PI3K pathways, as well as CDK4/6 inhibitors given the importance of cell cycle dysregulation in NRAS-mutant melanoma. The combination of ribociclib plus binimetinib showed an overall response rate of 19.5% with enhanced responses (32.5%) in patients with concurrent CDKN2A, CDK4, or CCND1 alterations.
Show evidence (1 reference)
PMID:35294522 SUPPORT Human Clinical
"cell-cycle genes may define a population with greater likelihood of treatment"
Phase Ib/II trial demonstrates the combination of CDK4/6 and MEK inhibition is active in NRAS-mutant melanoma, with enrichment in patients with cell-cycle gene co-mutations.
Naporafenib plus Trametinib
Action: targeted therapy Ontology label: Targeted Therapy NCIT:C93352
Agent: naporafenib trametinib
Investigational combined RAF/MEK inhibition with naporafenib plus trametinib has shown promising preliminary antitumor activity in advanced or metastatic NRAS-mutant melanoma, including a 46.7% objective response rate in one phase Ib expansion dosing cohort.
Show evidence (1 reference)
DOI:10.1200/jco.22.02018 SUPPORT Human Clinical
"In expansion, the objective response rate, median duration of response, and median progression-free survival were 46.7%"
Phase Ib expansion data support naporafenib plus trametinib as a prominent investigational targeted combination for NRAS-mutant melanoma.
{ }

Source YAML

click to show
name: NRAS Mutant Melanoma
creation_date: '2026-01-26T02:55:13Z'
updated_date: '2026-05-03T00:00:00Z'
description: >-
  NRAS-mutant melanoma is a molecular subtype of cutaneous melanoma characterized
  by
  activating mutations in the NRAS oncogene, occurring in approximately 15-25% of
  cutaneous melanomas. The most common mutations affect codon 61 (Q61R, Q61K, Q61L),
  with codons 12 and 13 affected less frequently. NRAS mutations result in constitutive
  GTP-bound active state and persistent activation of both MAPK and PI3K signaling
  pathways. NRAS-mutant melanomas are associated with chronic sun damage, older patient
  age, thicker primary tumors, and poorer prognosis compared to BRAF-mutant disease.
  Unlike BRAF-mutant melanoma, direct RAS inhibition has proven challenging, though
  MEK inhibitors show some activity and combination strategies are under investigation.
categories:
- Skin Cancer
- Molecularly Defined Cancer
- Oncogene-Driven Cancer
parents:
- cutaneous melanoma
pathophysiology:
- name: NRAS Q61 Oncogenic Mutation
  description: >-
    NRAS mutations at codon 61 (Q61R, Q61K, Q61L) impair intrinsic GTPase activity
    and reduce sensitivity to GTPase-activating proteins (GAPs), resulting in
    constitutively GTP-bound active NRAS. This locks the protein in its active
    conformation, continuously stimulating downstream effector pathways.
  evidence:
  - reference: PMID:40023845
    reference_title: "The NF1 tumor suppressor regulates PD-L1 and immune evasion in melanoma."
    supports: PARTIAL
    snippet: Hotspot BRAF, hotspot NRAS, and NF1 loss-of-function mutations are found in
    explanation: This abstract reports hotspot NRAS mutations in a substantial fraction of cutaneous melanomas, supporting the NRAS-mutant subtype.
  - reference: PMID:28851243
    reference_title: "Binimetinib for the treatment of NRAS-mutant melanoma."
    supports: SUPPORT
    evidence_source: HUMAN_CLINICAL
    snippet: Activating NRAS mutations occur in approximately 15-20% of melanomas and are the
    explanation: Confirms NRAS mutation prevalence at 15-20% and its status as the second most common oncogenic driver in melanoma.
  cell_types:
  - preferred_term: melanocyte
    term:
      id: CL:0000148
      label: melanocyte
  biological_processes:
  - preferred_term: signal transduction
    modifier: INCREASED
    term:
      id: GO:0007165
      label: signal transduction
  downstream:
  - target: Dual MAPK and PI3K Pathway Activation
    description: Active RAS simultaneously engages RAF-MEK-ERK and PI3K-AKT cascades
- name: Dual MAPK and PI3K Pathway Activation
  description: >-
    Unlike BRAF mutations that primarily activate MAPK signaling, oncogenic NRAS
    simultaneously activates both the RAF-MEK-ERK (MAPK) pathway and the PI3K-AKT
    pathway. This dual pathway activation contributes to the aggressive biology
    and relative treatment resistance of NRAS-mutant melanoma.
  evidence:
  - reference: PMID:35294522
    reference_title: "Phase Ib/II Trial of Ribociclib in Combination with Binimetinib in Patients with NRAS-mutant Melanoma."
    supports: SUPPORT
    evidence_source: HUMAN_CLINICAL
    snippet: Enhanced MAPK pathway signaling and cell-cycle checkpoint dysregulation
    explanation: Confirms enhanced MAPK signaling as a frequent feature of NRAS-mutant melanoma, supporting the dual pathway activation concept.
  biological_processes:
  - preferred_term: MAPK cascade
    modifier: INCREASED
    term:
      id: GO:0000165
      label: MAPK cascade
  downstream:
  - target: Uncontrolled Melanocyte Proliferation
    description: MAPK signaling drives cell cycle progression
  - target: Enhanced Cell Survival
    description: PI3K-AKT pathway promotes survival through multiple mechanisms
- name: Uncontrolled Melanocyte Proliferation
  description: >-
    Constitutive MAPK pathway activation downstream of mutant NRAS drives melanocyte
    proliferation through ERK-mediated transcriptional programs promoting cell cycle
    entry and progression.
  cell_types:
  - preferred_term: melanocyte
    term:
      id: CL:0000148
      label: melanocyte
  locations:
  - preferred_term: skin of body
    term:
      id: UBERON:0002097
      label: skin of body
  biological_processes:
  - preferred_term: cell population proliferation
    modifier: INCREASED
    term:
      id: GO:0008283
      label: cell population proliferation
- name: Enhanced Cell Survival
  description: >-
    PI3K-AKT pathway activation downstream of NRAS promotes melanoma cell survival
    through phosphorylation and inactivation of pro-apoptotic proteins, activation
    of mTOR signaling, and metabolic reprogramming. This contributes to therapy
    resistance and the need for combination treatment strategies.
  biological_processes:
  - preferred_term: apoptotic process
    modifier: DECREASED
    term:
      id: GO:0006915
      label: apoptotic process
histopathology:
- name: Melanocytic Neoplasm
  finding_term:
    preferred_term: Melanocytic Neoplasm
    term:
      id: NCIT:C7058
      label: Melanocytic Neoplasm
  frequency: VERY_FREQUENT
  description: Malignant melanoma represents a neoplasm stemming from melanocytes.
  evidence:
  - reference: PMID:27268913
    reference_title: "Malignant melanoma: diagnosis, treatment and cancer stem cells."
    supports: PARTIAL
    snippet: "Malignant melanoma represents a neoplasm stemming from melanocytes"
    explanation: Abstract defines melanoma as a neoplasm stemming from melanocytes.

phenotypes:
- category: Dermatologic
  name: Cutaneous Melanoma
  frequency: OBLIGATE
  diagnostic: true
  description: >-
    Melanoma arising from cutaneous melanocytes. NRAS-mutant melanomas are typically
    associated with chronic sun damage sites and may present with thicker primary
    tumors compared to BRAF-mutant disease.
  phenotype_term:
    preferred_term: Cutaneous melanoma
    term:
      id: HP:0012056
      label: Cutaneous melanoma
  evidence:
  - reference: PMID:28851243
    reference_title: "Binimetinib for the treatment of NRAS-mutant melanoma."
    supports: SUPPORT
    evidence_source: HUMAN_CLINICAL
    snippet: Activating NRAS mutations occur in approximately 15-20% of melanomas and are the
    explanation: Confirms NRAS mutations as the second most common driver in cutaneous melanoma.
- category: Dermatologic
  name: Pigmented Skin Lesion
  frequency: VERY_FREQUENT
  description: >-
    Primary tumor presenting as an asymmetric pigmented lesion, often arising
    on chronically sun-damaged skin in older patients.
  phenotype_term:
    preferred_term: Neoplasm of the skin
    term:
      id: HP:0008069
      label: Neoplasm of the skin
- category: Dermatologic
  name: Abnormal Skin Pigmentation
  frequency: VERY_FREQUENT
  description: >-
    Melanocytic tumors frequently display abnormal pigmentation patterns including
    variegated color, irregular borders, and asymmetry. Pigmentary changes may
    also occur in response to immunotherapy.
  phenotype_term:
    preferred_term: Abnormality of skin pigmentation
    term:
      id: HP:0001000
      label: Abnormality of skin pigmentation
- category: Oncologic
  name: Lymphadenopathy
  description: >-
    Regional lymph node relapse occurs in NRAS-mutant melanoma and contributes
    to the aggressive early-stage behavior described for this molecular subtype.
    Sentinel lymph node biopsy is standard for staging of melanomas with
    significant Breslow thickness.
  phenotype_term:
    preferred_term: Lymphadenopathy
    term:
      id: HP:0002716
      label: Lymphadenopathy
  evidence:
  - reference: PMID:28797232
    reference_title: "Prognostic significance of BRAF and NRAS mutations in melanoma: a German study from routine care."
    supports: SUPPORT
    evidence_source: HUMAN_CLINICAL
    snippet: >-
      higher frequency of nodal relapse
    explanation: >-
      Routine-care melanoma cohort directly links NRAS-mutant melanoma with nodal
      relapse, supporting lymph node involvement as a phenotype.
- category: Oncologic
  name: Neoplasm of the Lung
  description: >-
    Pulmonary metastases can occur in advanced NRAS-mutant melanoma, with cohort
    data linking NRAS mutation status to increased odds of lung metastasis.
  phenotype_term:
    preferred_term: Neoplasm of the lung
    term:
      id: HP:0100526
      label: Neoplasm of the lung
  evidence:
  - reference: PMID:28787433
    reference_title: "Tumour mutation status and sites of metastasis in patients with cutaneous melanoma."
    supports: SUPPORT
    evidence_source: HUMAN_CLINICAL
    snippet: >-
      NRAS mutation was associated with lung metastasis
    explanation: >-
      Prospective cutaneous melanoma cohort directly associates NRAS mutation
      status with lung metastasis.
- category: Oncologic
  name: Brain Neoplasm
  description: >-
    Central nervous system metastases occur in advanced melanoma and are reported
    at increased odds in NRAS-mutant disease compared with BRAF/NRAS wild-type
    melanoma.
  phenotype_term:
    preferred_term: Brain metastasis
    term:
      id: HP:0030692
      label: Brain neoplasm
  evidence:
  - reference: PMID:28787433
    reference_title: "Tumour mutation status and sites of metastasis in patients with cutaneous melanoma."
    supports: SUPPORT
    evidence_source: HUMAN_CLINICAL
    snippet: >-
      central nervous system (CNS) metastasis
    explanation: >-
      Cohort study reports an association between NRAS mutation and CNS
      metastasis; the HPO brain neoplasm term is used as the closest available
      phenotype for melanoma brain metastasis.
genetic:
- name: NRAS Q61R
  association: Somatic Oncogenic Mutation
  notes: >-
    Most common NRAS mutation in melanoma, substituting glutamine with arginine
    at codon 61. Impairs GTPase activity and GAP sensitivity, resulting in
    constitutively active NRAS.
  evidence:
  - reference: PMID:40023845
    reference_title: "The NF1 tumor suppressor regulates PD-L1 and immune evasion in melanoma."
    supports: SUPPORT
    evidence_source: HUMAN_CLINICAL
    snippet: Hotspot BRAF, hotspot NRAS, and NF1 loss-of-function mutations are found in
    explanation: Confirms hotspot NRAS mutations are present in approximately 25% of cutaneous melanomas.
- name: NRAS Q61K
  association: Somatic Oncogenic Mutation
  notes: >-
    Common NRAS mutation substituting glutamine with lysine at codon 61. Functionally
    equivalent to Q61R with similar downstream pathway activation.
- name: NRAS Q61L
  association: Somatic Oncogenic Mutation
  notes: >-
    NRAS mutation substituting glutamine with leucine at codon 61. Results in
    constitutive pathway activation similar to other Q61 mutations.
treatments:
- name: MEK Inhibitors
  description: >-
    MEK inhibitors (binimetinib, trametinib) have demonstrated modest activity in
    NRAS-mutant melanoma. The NEMO trial showed binimetinib improved progression-free
    survival compared to dacarbazine (median PFS 2.8 vs 1.5 months). Response rates
    are lower than in BRAF-mutant disease, but MEK inhibition represents one of the
    few targeted options for this molecular subtype.
  treatment_term:
    preferred_term: targeted therapy
    term:
      id: NCIT:C93352
      label: Targeted Therapy
    therapeutic_agent:
    - preferred_term: binimetinib
      term:
        id: CHEBI:145371
        label: binimetinib
    - preferred_term: trametinib
      term:
        id: CHEBI:75998
        label: trametinib
  evidence:
  - reference: PMID:28284557
    reference_title: "Binimetinib versus dacarbazine in patients with advanced NRAS-mutant melanoma (NEMO): a multicentre, open-label, randomised, phase 3 trial."
    supports: SUPPORT
    evidence_source: HUMAN_CLINICAL
    snippet: dacarbazine and was tolerable. Binimetinib might represent a new treatment
    explanation: The landmark NEMO phase 3 trial demonstrates binimetinib efficacy in NRAS-mutant melanoma with improved PFS over dacarbazine.
  - reference: PMID:32100585
    reference_title: "An overview of binimetinib for the treatment of melanoma."
    supports: SUPPORT
    evidence_source: HUMAN_CLINICAL
    snippet: almost doubled median progression-free survival when compared to dacarbazine in
    explanation: Confirms binimetinib nearly doubled PFS vs dacarbazine in NRAS-mutant melanoma.
  - reference: PMID:28587477
    reference_title: "A review of binimetinib for the treatment of mutant cutaneous melanoma."
    supports: SUPPORT
    evidence_source: HUMAN_CLINICAL
    snippet: recent Phase III trial rendered binimetinib the first targeted therapy agent to
    explanation: Confirms binimetinib as the first targeted therapy to significantly improve PFS in NRAS-mutant melanoma.
  - reference: PMID:28851243
    reference_title: "Binimetinib for the treatment of NRAS-mutant melanoma."
    supports: SUPPORT
    evidence_source: HUMAN_CLINICAL
    snippet: with dacarbazine in a randomized phase 3 clinical trial, with no improvement in
    explanation: Provides context that while PFS improved, overall survival was not significantly improved, supporting the characterization of modest activity.
- name: Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors
  description: >-
    Anti-PD-1 antibodies (pembrolizumab, nivolumab) alone or combined with anti-CTLA-4
    (ipilimumab) are the primary treatment for advanced NRAS-mutant melanoma. NRAS-mutant
    tumors may have higher tumor mutational burden, potentially enhancing immunotherapy
    responsiveness.
  treatment_term:
    preferred_term: immunotherapy
    term:
      id: NCIT:C15262
      label: Immunotherapy
  evidence:
  - reference: PMID:36873887
    reference_title: "Objective response to immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy in NRAS-mutant melanoma: A systematic review and meta-analysis."
    supports: SUPPORT
    evidence_source: HUMAN_CLINICAL
    snippet: cutaneous melanoma demonstrated an increased likelihood of partial or complete
    explanation: Meta-analysis of 1770 patients shows NRAS-mutant melanoma may have higher ICI response rates compared to NRAS-wildtype, supporting immunotherapy use.
  - reference: PMID:28587477
    reference_title: "A review of binimetinib for the treatment of mutant cutaneous melanoma."
    supports: SUPPORT
    evidence_source: HUMAN_CLINICAL
    snippet: NRAS-mutated melanoma still face limited therapeutic options, with immunotherapy
    explanation: Confirms immunotherapy as the standard treatment for NRAS-mutant melanoma given limited targeted therapy options.
  - reference: PMID:28851243
    reference_title: "Binimetinib for the treatment of NRAS-mutant melanoma."
    supports: SUPPORT
    evidence_source: HUMAN_CLINICAL
    snippet: There is an unmet medical need for new targeted therapy opportunities
    explanation: Highlights the lack of targeted therapies and the dependence on immunotherapy for NRAS-mutant melanoma treatment.
- name: Combination Targeted Therapy
  description: >-
    Clinical trials are investigating combinations targeting both MAPK and PI3K pathways,
    as well as CDK4/6 inhibitors given the importance of cell cycle dysregulation in
    NRAS-mutant melanoma. The combination of ribociclib plus binimetinib showed an
    overall response rate of 19.5% with enhanced responses (32.5%) in patients with
    concurrent CDKN2A, CDK4, or CCND1 alterations.
  treatment_term:
    preferred_term: targeted therapy
    term:
      id: NCIT:C93352
      label: Targeted Therapy
    therapeutic_agent:
    - preferred_term: ribociclib
    - preferred_term: binimetinib
      term:
        id: CHEBI:145371
        label: binimetinib
  evidence:
  - reference: PMID:35294522
    reference_title: "Phase Ib/II Trial of Ribociclib in Combination with Binimetinib in Patients with NRAS-mutant Melanoma."
    supports: SUPPORT
    evidence_source: HUMAN_CLINICAL
    snippet: cell-cycle genes may define a population with greater likelihood of treatment
    explanation: Phase Ib/II trial demonstrates the combination of CDK4/6 and MEK inhibition is active in NRAS-mutant melanoma, with enrichment in patients with cell-cycle gene co-mutations.
- name: Naporafenib plus Trametinib
  description: >-
    Investigational combined RAF/MEK inhibition with naporafenib plus trametinib
    has shown promising preliminary antitumor activity in advanced or metastatic
    NRAS-mutant melanoma, including a 46.7% objective response rate in one phase
    Ib expansion dosing cohort.
  treatment_term:
    preferred_term: targeted therapy
    term:
      id: NCIT:C93352
      label: Targeted Therapy
    therapeutic_agent:
    - preferred_term: naporafenib
    - preferred_term: trametinib
      term:
        id: CHEBI:75998
        label: trametinib
  evidence:
  - reference: DOI:10.1200/jco.22.02018
    reference_title: "Initial Evidence for the Efficacy of Naporafenib in Combination With Trametinib in NRAS-Mutant Melanoma: Results From the Expansion Arm of a Phase Ib, Open-Label Study."
    supports: SUPPORT
    evidence_source: HUMAN_CLINICAL
    snippet: >-
      In expansion, the objective response rate, median duration of response, and
      median progression-free survival were 46.7%
    explanation: >-
      Phase Ib expansion data support naporafenib plus trametinib as a prominent
      investigational targeted combination for NRAS-mutant melanoma.
disease_term:
  preferred_term: cutaneous melanoma
  term:
    id: MONDO:0005012
    label: cutaneous melanoma
notes: >-
  Direct RAS inhibition has historically been considered undruggable due to high
  picomolar affinity for GTP and lack of suitable drug-binding pockets. However,
  recent advances including RAS(ON) inhibitors and covalent KRAS G12C inhibitors
  have renewed interest in direct RAS targeting. NRAS-mutant melanoma patients
  generally have poorer outcomes than BRAF-mutant disease and lack a standard
  targeted therapy option, making immunotherapy the mainstay of treatment.

classifications:
  icdo_morphology:
    classification_value: Melanoma
  harrisons_chapter:
  - classification_value: cancer
  - classification_value: solid tumor
references:
- reference: DOI:10.1038/s41467-021-25326-8
  title: Epigenetic control of melanoma cell invasiveness by the stem cell factor SALL4
  found_in:
  - NRAS_Mutant_Melanoma-deep-research-falcon.md
  findings:
  - statement: Melanoma cells rely on developmental programs during tumor initiation and progression.
    supporting_text: Melanoma cells rely on developmental programs during tumor initiation and progression.
    evidence:
    - reference: DOI:10.1038/s41467-021-25326-8
      reference_title: Epigenetic control of melanoma cell invasiveness by the stem cell factor SALL4
      supports: SUPPORT
      evidence_source: HUMAN_CLINICAL
      snippet: Melanoma cells rely on developmental programs during tumor initiation and progression.
      explanation: Deep research cited this publication as relevant literature for NRAS Mutant Melanoma.
- reference: DOI:10.1038/s41467-022-30881-9
  title: Enhanced BRAF engagement by NRAS mutants capable of promoting melanoma initiation
  found_in:
  - NRAS_Mutant_Melanoma-deep-research-falcon.md
  findings:
  - statement: A distinct profile of NRAS mutants is observed in each tumor type.
    supporting_text: A distinct profile of NRAS mutants is observed in each tumor type.
    evidence:
    - reference: DOI:10.1038/s41467-022-30881-9
      reference_title: Enhanced BRAF engagement by NRAS mutants capable of promoting melanoma initiation
      supports: SUPPORT
      evidence_source: HUMAN_CLINICAL
      snippet: A distinct profile of NRAS mutants is observed in each tumor type.
      explanation: Deep research cited this publication as relevant literature for NRAS Mutant Melanoma.
- reference: DOI:10.1080/14737140.2017.1374177
  title: Binimetinib for the treatment of NRAS-mutant melanoma
  found_in:
  - NRAS_Mutant_Melanoma-deep-research-falcon.md
  findings:
  - statement: Binimetinib for the treatment of NRAS-mutant melanoma
    supporting_text: Binimetinib for the treatment of NRAS-mutant melanoma
- reference: DOI:10.1080/23808993.2021.1938545
  title: Novel insights into the pathogenesis and treatment of NRAS mutant melanoma
  found_in:
  - NRAS_Mutant_Melanoma-deep-research-falcon.md
  findings:
  - statement: Novel insights into the pathogenesis and treatment of NRAS mutant melanoma
    supporting_text: Novel insights into the pathogenesis and treatment of NRAS mutant melanoma
- reference: DOI:10.1111/j.1755-148x.2011.00873.x
  title: Clinical outcome and pathological features associated with NRAS mutation in cutaneous melanoma
  found_in:
  - NRAS_Mutant_Melanoma-deep-research-falcon.md
  findings:
  - statement: The effect of NRAS mutations on the pathological features and clinical outcomes in patients with cutaneous melanoma was compared with that of tumors containing BRAFV600E mutations and tumors wild type for both (WT).
    supporting_text: The effect of NRAS mutations on the pathological features and clinical outcomes in patients with cutaneous melanoma was compared with that of tumors containing BRAFV600E mutations and tumors wild type for both (WT).
    evidence:
    - reference: DOI:10.1111/j.1755-148x.2011.00873.x
      reference_title: Clinical outcome and pathological features associated with NRAS mutation in cutaneous melanoma
      supports: SUPPORT
      evidence_source: HUMAN_CLINICAL
      snippet: The effect of NRAS mutations on the pathological features and clinical outcomes in patients with cutaneous melanoma was compared with that of tumors containing BRAFV600E mutations and tumors wild type for both (WT).
      explanation: Deep research cited this publication as relevant literature for NRAS Mutant Melanoma.
- reference: DOI:10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-21-3872
  title: Phase Ib/II Trial of Ribociclib in Combination with Binimetinib in Patients with <i>NRAS</i> -mutant Melanoma
  found_in:
  - NRAS_Mutant_Melanoma-deep-research-falcon.md
  findings:
  - statement: Enhanced MAPK pathway signaling and cell-cycle checkpoint dysregulation are frequent in NRAS-mutant melanoma and, as such, the regimen of the MEK inhibitor binimetinib and the selective CDK4/6 inhibitor ribociclib is a rational combination.
    supporting_text: 'Enhanced MAPK pathway signaling and cell-cycle checkpoint dysregulation are frequent in NRAS-mutant melanoma and, as such, the regimen of the MEK inhibitor binimetinib and the selective CDK4/6 inhibitor ribociclib is a rational combination.'
    evidence:
    - reference: DOI:10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-21-3872
      reference_title: Phase Ib/II Trial of Ribociclib in Combination with Binimetinib in Patients with <i>NRAS</i> -mutant Melanoma
      supports: SUPPORT
      evidence_source: HUMAN_CLINICAL
      snippet: 'Enhanced MAPK pathway signaling and cell-cycle checkpoint dysregulation are frequent in NRAS-mutant melanoma and, as such, the regimen of the MEK inhibitor binimetinib and the selective CDK4/6 inhibitor ribociclib is a rational combination.'
      explanation: Deep research cited this publication as relevant literature for NRAS Mutant Melanoma.
- reference: DOI:10.1158/2159-8290.cd-14-0729
  title: Mutation-Specific RAS Oncogenicity Explains NRAS Codon 61 Selection in Melanoma
  found_in:
  - NRAS_Mutant_Melanoma-deep-research-falcon.md
  findings:
  - statement: NRAS mutation at codons 12, 13, or 61 is associated with transformation; yet, in melanoma, such alterations are nearly exclusive to codon 61.
    supporting_text: NRAS mutation at codons 12, 13, or 61 is associated with transformation; yet, in melanoma, such alterations are nearly exclusive to codon 61.
    evidence:
    - reference: DOI:10.1158/2159-8290.cd-14-0729
      reference_title: Mutation-Specific RAS Oncogenicity Explains NRAS Codon 61 Selection in Melanoma
      supports: SUPPORT
      evidence_source: HUMAN_CLINICAL
      snippet: NRAS mutation at codons 12, 13, or 61 is associated with transformation; yet, in melanoma, such alterations are nearly exclusive to codon 61.
      explanation: Deep research cited this publication as relevant literature for NRAS Mutant Melanoma.
- reference: DOI:10.1186/s12943-023-01789-9
  title: CXCR2 expression during melanoma tumorigenesis controls transcriptional programs that facilitate tumor growth
  found_in:
  - NRAS_Mutant_Melanoma-deep-research-falcon.md
  findings:
  - statement: CXCR2 expression during melanoma tumorigenesis controls transcriptional programs that facilitate tumor growth
    supporting_text: Though the CXCR2 chemokine receptor is known to play a key role in cancer growth and response to therapy, a direct link between expression of CXCR2 in tumor progenitor cells during induction of tumorigenesis has not been established.MethodsTo characterize the role of CXCR2 during melanoma tumorigenesis, we generated tamoxifen-inducible tyrosinase-promoter drivenBrafV600E/Pten−/−/Cxcr2−/−andNRasQ61R/INK4a−/−/Cxcr2−/−melanoma models.
    evidence:
    - reference: DOI:10.1186/s12943-023-01789-9
      reference_title: CXCR2 expression during melanoma tumorigenesis controls transcriptional programs that facilitate tumor growth
      supports: SUPPORT
      evidence_source: MODEL_ORGANISM
      snippet: Though the CXCR2 chemokine receptor is known to play a key role in cancer growth and response to therapy, a direct link between expression of CXCR2 in tumor progenitor cells during induction of tumorigenesis has not been established.MethodsTo characterize the role of CXCR2 during melanoma tumorigenesis, we generated tamoxifen-inducible tyrosinase-promoter drivenBrafV600E/Pten−/−/Cxcr2−/−andNRasQ61R/INK4a−/−/Cxcr2−/−melanoma models.
      explanation: Deep research cited this publication as relevant literature for NRAS Mutant Melanoma.
- reference: DOI:10.1200/jco.22.02018
  title: 'Initial Evidence for the Efficacy of Naporafenib in Combination With Trametinib in <i>NRAS</i>-Mutant Melanoma: Results From the Expansion Arm of a Phase Ib, Open-Label Study'
  found_in:
  - NRAS_Mutant_Melanoma-deep-research-falcon.md
  findings:
  - statement: No approved targeted therapy for the treatment of patients with neuroblastoma RAS viral (v-ras) oncogene homolog ( NRAS)–mutant melanoma is currently available.
    supporting_text: No approved targeted therapy for the treatment of patients with neuroblastoma RAS viral (v-ras) oncogene homolog ( NRAS)–mutant melanoma is currently available.
    evidence:
    - reference: DOI:10.1200/jco.22.02018
      reference_title: 'Initial Evidence for the Efficacy of Naporafenib in Combination With Trametinib in <i>NRAS</i>-Mutant Melanoma: Results From the Expansion Arm of a Phase Ib, Open-Label Study'
      supports: SUPPORT
      evidence_source: HUMAN_CLINICAL
      snippet: No approved targeted therapy for the treatment of patients with neuroblastoma RAS viral (v-ras) oncogene homolog ( NRAS)–mutant melanoma is currently available.
      explanation: Deep research cited this publication as relevant literature for NRAS Mutant Melanoma.
- reference: DOI:10.1200/jco.23.00205
  title: Targeting<i>NRAS</i>Mutations in Advanced Melanoma
  found_in:
  - NRAS_Mutant_Melanoma-deep-research-falcon.md
  findings:
  - statement: Targeting<i>NRAS</i>Mutations in Advanced Melanoma
    supporting_text: Targeting<i>NRAS</i>Mutations in Advanced Melanoma
- reference: DOI:10.3389/fmed.2023.1090737
  title: 'Objective response to immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy in NRAS-mutant melanoma: A systematic review and meta-analysis'
  found_in:
  - NRAS_Mutant_Melanoma-deep-research-falcon.md
  findings:
  - statement: NRAS mutations are common in melanoma and confer a worse prognosis.
    supporting_text: NRAS mutations are common in melanoma and confer a worse prognosis.
    evidence:
    - reference: DOI:10.3389/fmed.2023.1090737
      reference_title: 'Objective response to immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy in NRAS-mutant melanoma: A systematic review and meta-analysis'
      supports: SUPPORT
      evidence_source: OTHER
      snippet: NRAS mutations are common in melanoma and confer a worse prognosis.
      explanation: Deep research cited this publication as relevant literature for NRAS Mutant Melanoma.
- reference: DOI:10.3390/cancers16071347
  title: Targeted DNA Sequencing of Cutaneous Melanoma Identifies Prognostic and Predictive Alterations
  found_in:
  - NRAS_Mutant_Melanoma-deep-research-falcon.md
  findings:
  - statement: 'Cutaneous melanoma (CM) can be molecularly classified into four groups: BRAF mutant, NRAS mutant, NF1 mutant and triple wild-type (TWT) tumors lacking any of these three alterations.'
    supporting_text: 'Cutaneous melanoma (CM) can be molecularly classified into four groups: BRAF mutant, NRAS mutant, NF1 mutant and triple wild-type (TWT) tumors lacking any of these three alterations.'
    evidence:
    - reference: DOI:10.3390/cancers16071347
      reference_title: Targeted DNA Sequencing of Cutaneous Melanoma Identifies Prognostic and Predictive Alterations
      supports: SUPPORT
      evidence_source: HUMAN_CLINICAL
      snippet: 'Cutaneous melanoma (CM) can be molecularly classified into four groups: BRAF mutant, NRAS mutant, NF1 mutant and triple wild-type (TWT) tumors lacking any of these three alterations.'
      explanation: Deep research cited this publication as relevant literature for NRAS Mutant Melanoma.
📚

References & Deep Research

References

12
Epigenetic control of melanoma cell invasiveness by the stem cell factor SALL4
1 finding
Melanoma cells rely on developmental programs during tumor initiation and progression.
"Melanoma cells rely on developmental programs during tumor initiation and progression."
Show evidence (1 reference)
DOI:10.1038/s41467-021-25326-8 SUPPORT Human Clinical
"Melanoma cells rely on developmental programs during tumor initiation and progression."
Deep research cited this publication as relevant literature for NRAS Mutant Melanoma.
Enhanced BRAF engagement by NRAS mutants capable of promoting melanoma initiation
1 finding
A distinct profile of NRAS mutants is observed in each tumor type.
"A distinct profile of NRAS mutants is observed in each tumor type."
Show evidence (1 reference)
DOI:10.1038/s41467-022-30881-9 SUPPORT Human Clinical
"A distinct profile of NRAS mutants is observed in each tumor type."
Deep research cited this publication as relevant literature for NRAS Mutant Melanoma.
Binimetinib for the treatment of NRAS-mutant melanoma
1 finding
Binimetinib for the treatment of NRAS-mutant melanoma
"Binimetinib for the treatment of NRAS-mutant melanoma"
Novel insights into the pathogenesis and treatment of NRAS mutant melanoma
1 finding
Novel insights into the pathogenesis and treatment of NRAS mutant melanoma
"Novel insights into the pathogenesis and treatment of NRAS mutant melanoma"
Clinical outcome and pathological features associated with NRAS mutation in cutaneous melanoma
1 finding
The effect of NRAS mutations on the pathological features and clinical outcomes in patients with cutaneous melanoma was compared with that of tumors containing BRAFV600E mutations and tumors wild type for both (WT).
"The effect of NRAS mutations on the pathological features and clinical outcomes in patients with cutaneous melanoma was compared with that of tumors containing BRAFV600E mutations and tumors wild type for both (WT)."
Show evidence (1 reference)
DOI:10.1111/j.1755-148x.2011.00873.x SUPPORT Human Clinical
"The effect of NRAS mutations on the pathological features and clinical outcomes in patients with cutaneous melanoma was compared with that of tumors containing BRAFV600E mutations and tumors wild type for both (WT)."
Deep research cited this publication as relevant literature for NRAS Mutant Melanoma.
Phase Ib/II Trial of Ribociclib in Combination with Binimetinib in Patients with <i>NRAS</i> -mutant Melanoma
1 finding
Enhanced MAPK pathway signaling and cell-cycle checkpoint dysregulation are frequent in NRAS-mutant melanoma and, as such, the regimen of the MEK inhibitor binimetinib and the selective CDK4/6 inhibitor ribociclib is a rational combination.
"Enhanced MAPK pathway signaling and cell-cycle checkpoint dysregulation are frequent in NRAS-mutant melanoma and, as such, the regimen of the MEK inhibitor binimetinib and the selective CDK4/6 inhibitor ribociclib is a rational combination."
Show evidence (1 reference)
DOI:10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-21-3872 SUPPORT Human Clinical
"Enhanced MAPK pathway signaling and cell-cycle checkpoint dysregulation are frequent in NRAS-mutant melanoma and, as such, the regimen of the MEK inhibitor binimetinib and the selective CDK4/6 inhibitor ribociclib is a rational combination."
Deep research cited this publication as relevant literature for NRAS Mutant Melanoma.
Mutation-Specific RAS Oncogenicity Explains NRAS Codon 61 Selection in Melanoma
1 finding
NRAS mutation at codons 12, 13, or 61 is associated with transformation; yet, in melanoma, such alterations are nearly exclusive to codon 61.
"NRAS mutation at codons 12, 13, or 61 is associated with transformation; yet, in melanoma, such alterations are nearly exclusive to codon 61."
Show evidence (1 reference)
DOI:10.1158/2159-8290.cd-14-0729 SUPPORT Human Clinical
"NRAS mutation at codons 12, 13, or 61 is associated with transformation; yet, in melanoma, such alterations are nearly exclusive to codon 61."
Deep research cited this publication as relevant literature for NRAS Mutant Melanoma.
CXCR2 expression during melanoma tumorigenesis controls transcriptional programs that facilitate tumor growth
1 finding
CXCR2 expression during melanoma tumorigenesis controls transcriptional programs that facilitate tumor growth
"Though the CXCR2 chemokine receptor is known to play a key role in cancer growth and response to therapy, a direct link between expression of CXCR2 in tumor progenitor cells during induction of tumorigenesis has not been established.MethodsTo characterize the role of CXCR2 during melanoma..."
Show evidence (1 reference)
DOI:10.1186/s12943-023-01789-9 SUPPORT Model Organism
"Though the CXCR2 chemokine receptor is known to play a key role in cancer growth and response to therapy, a direct link between expression of CXCR2 in tumor progenitor cells during induction of tumorigenesis has not been established.MethodsTo characterize the role of CXCR2 during melanoma..."
Deep research cited this publication as relevant literature for NRAS Mutant Melanoma.
Initial Evidence for the Efficacy of Naporafenib in Combination With Trametinib in <i>NRAS</i>-Mutant Melanoma: Results From the Expansion Arm of a Phase Ib, Open-Label Study
1 finding
No approved targeted therapy for the treatment of patients with neuroblastoma RAS viral (v-ras) oncogene homolog ( NRAS)–mutant melanoma is currently available.
"No approved targeted therapy for the treatment of patients with neuroblastoma RAS viral (v-ras) oncogene homolog ( NRAS)–mutant melanoma is currently available."
Show evidence (1 reference)
DOI:10.1200/jco.22.02018 SUPPORT Human Clinical
"No approved targeted therapy for the treatment of patients with neuroblastoma RAS viral (v-ras) oncogene homolog ( NRAS)–mutant melanoma is currently available."
Deep research cited this publication as relevant literature for NRAS Mutant Melanoma.
Targeting<i>NRAS</i>Mutations in Advanced Melanoma
1 finding
Targeting<i>NRAS</i>Mutations in Advanced Melanoma
"Targeting<i>NRAS</i>Mutations in Advanced Melanoma"
Objective response to immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy in NRAS-mutant melanoma: A systematic review and meta-analysis
1 finding
NRAS mutations are common in melanoma and confer a worse prognosis.
"NRAS mutations are common in melanoma and confer a worse prognosis."
Show evidence (1 reference)
"NRAS mutations are common in melanoma and confer a worse prognosis."
Deep research cited this publication as relevant literature for NRAS Mutant Melanoma.
Targeted DNA Sequencing of Cutaneous Melanoma Identifies Prognostic and Predictive Alterations
1 finding
Cutaneous melanoma (CM) can be molecularly classified into four groups: BRAF mutant, NRAS mutant, NF1 mutant and triple wild-type (TWT) tumors lacking any of these three alterations.
"Cutaneous melanoma (CM) can be molecularly classified into four groups: BRAF mutant, NRAS mutant, NF1 mutant and triple wild-type (TWT) tumors lacking any of these three alterations."
Show evidence (1 reference)
DOI:10.3390/cancers16071347 SUPPORT Human Clinical
"Cutaneous melanoma (CM) can be molecularly classified into four groups: BRAF mutant, NRAS mutant, NF1 mutant and triple wild-type (TWT) tumors lacking any of these three alterations."
Deep research cited this publication as relevant literature for NRAS Mutant Melanoma.

Deep Research

1
Falcon
1. Disease Information
Edison Scientific Literature 35 citations 2026-04-05T20:50:24.649220

1. Disease Information

1.1 Concise overview

NRAS-mutant melanoma is a molecular subset of melanoma (most often cutaneous melanoma in the available evidence) characterized by activating somatic mutations in NRAS, a small GTPase that drives constitutive downstream signaling—most prominently MAPK (RAF–MEK–ERK) and frequently PI3K–AKT pathway activity—leading to increased proliferation and survival. In contemporary clinical practice, it is recognized as a therapeutically important subgroup because (i) it represents ~15–20% of melanomas, (ii) direct mutant-NRAS inhibitors have historically been lacking, and (iii) treatment is typically centered on immune checkpoint blockade with targeted therapy options being limited and/or modest in efficacy. (phadke2023targetingnrasmutationsinadvanced pages 1-2, braud2023initialevidencefor pages 1-3)

A key molecular feature is that the predominant NRAS mutations in melanoma occur at codon 61 (Q61), which impair intrinsic GTPase activity and keep NRAS in a GTP-bound “ON” state. (phadke2023targetingnrasmutationsinadvanced pages 1-2, zhao2021novelinsightsinto pages 3-4)

1.2 Key identifiers and cross-references

The retrieved literature did not provide canonical disease identifiers (ICD-10/ICD-11, MeSH, OMIM, Orphanet, MONDO) specifically for the molecular subtype “NRAS-mutant melanoma.” The Open Targets search returned broader melanoma concepts (e.g., melanoma and cutaneous melanoma) with evidence linked to NRAS, but not a dedicated “NRAS-mutant melanoma” MONDO identifier in the retrieved outputs. (phadke2023targetingnrasmutationsinadvanced pages 1-2, braud2023initialevidencefor pages 1-3)

Ontology summary artifact:

Concept Ontology/ID (MONDO/MeSH/ICD if available) Notes
NRAS-mutant melanoma MONDO: not found in retrieved sources Molecularly defined melanoma subset; retrieved evidence describes it as a subtype of cutaneous melanoma driven by activating NRAS mutations, present in ~15%–20% of melanomas (phadke2023targetingnrasmutationsinadvanced pages 1-2, braud2023initialevidencefor pages 1-3)
NRAS-mutated melanoma MONDO: not found in retrieved sources Synonymous wording used in reviews and clinical trial literature for the same entity (phadke2023targetingnrasmutationsinadvanced pages 1-2, braud2023initialevidencefor pages 1-3)
NRAS-mutant cutaneous melanoma ICD/MeSH/MONDO specific identifier for this molecular subtype: not found in retrieved sources Most retrieved evidence concerns cutaneous melanoma specifically; one 2024 cohort classified cutaneous melanoma into BRAF-mutant, NRAS-mutant, NF1-mutant, and triple wild-type groups (haugh2024targeteddnasequencing pages 1-2)
NRAS Q61-mutant melanoma MONDO: not found in retrieved sources Common hotspot-defined synonym; codon 61 alterations account for the great majority of NRAS mutations in melanoma (>80% in one 2023 review; ~84% in one 2021 review) (phadke2023targetingnrasmutationsinadvanced pages 1-2, zhao2021novelinsightsinto pages 3-4)
NRAS Q61R/K/L-mutant melanoma MONDO: not found in retrieved sources More specific hotspot grouping; Q61R, Q61K, and Q61L are repeatedly highlighted as predominant melanoma-associated variants (phadke2023targetingnrasmutationsinadvanced pages 1-2, murphy2022enhancedbrafengagement pages 1-2)
Cutaneous melanoma MeSH/ICD/MONDO specific identifier not retrieved; Open Targets disease ID for cutaneous melanoma: EFO_0000389 Parent disease concept used by several retrieved sources when discussing the NRAS-mutant subgroup (haugh2024targeteddnasequencing pages 1-2)
Melanoma MeSH/ICD/MONDO specific identifier not retrieved; Open Targets disease ID for melanoma: EFO_0000756 Broader parent disease concept; disease-target association with NRAS was retrieved for melanoma generally (Open Targets result in prior tool output; molecular subgroup details supported by review evidence) (phadke2023targetingnrasmutationsinadvanced pages 1-2, braud2023initialevidencefor pages 1-3)
Superficial spreading melanoma MONDO_0020638 Retrieved as a melanoma histologic subtype in Open Targets output; not synonymous with NRAS-mutant melanoma, but relevant as a parent histologic melanoma concept distinct from the molecular subtype (supported context on melanoma subtyping) (haugh2024targeteddnasequencing pages 1-2)

Table: This table maps the disease naming used in the retrieved evidence for NRAS-mutant melanoma and related parent concepts. It is useful for ontology normalization because the retrieved sources support the molecular subtype terminology but did not provide a dedicated MONDO/MeSH/ICD identifier for the subtype itself.

1.3 Synonyms / alternative names

Commonly used synonyms in the literature include: - “NRAS-mutant melanoma” / “NRAS-mutated melanoma” (phadke2023targetingnrasmutationsinadvanced pages 1-2, braud2023initialevidencefor pages 1-3) - “NRAS Q61-mutant melanoma” and variant-specific groupings such as “NRAS Q61R/K/L melanoma” (phadke2023targetingnrasmutationsinadvanced pages 1-2, murphy2022enhancedbrafengagement pages 1-2)

1.4 Evidence source type

The retrieved evidence is primarily: - Aggregated disease-level resources (systematic review/meta-analysis of immunotherapy response) (jaeger2023objectiveresponseto pages 1-2) - Prospective/retrospective human cohorts for clinicopathologic correlations and outcomes (devitt2011clinicaloutcomeand pages 1-3, haugh2024targeteddnasequencing pages 1-2) - Interventional clinical trials for targeted therapy combinations (braud2023initialevidencefor pages 1-3, queirolo2017binimetinibforthe pages 9-11) - Genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) and mechanistic studies (burd2014mutationspecificrasoncogenicity pages 1-3, murphy2022enhancedbrafengagement pages 1-2, johanna2021epigeneticcontrolof pages 1-2, yang2023cxcr2expressionduring pages 1-2)


2. Etiology

2.1 Disease causal factors

Genetic (somatic) driver: Activating somatic mutations in NRAS are a central causal factor defining the subtype. NRAS mutations are reported in ~15–20% of melanomas in multiple sources. (phadke2023targetingnrasmutationsinadvanced pages 1-2, braud2023initialevidencefor pages 1-3)

Hotspot biology: A 2023 JCO review states that the predominant alterations (>80%) occur at codon 61 (Q61R, Q61L, Q61K) and “serve to impair GTPase activity, locking the gene in a constitutively ON position.” (phadke2023targetingnrasmutationsinadvanced pages 1-2)

2.2 Risk factors

Tumor/pathology-associated “risk correlates” for NRAS-mutant status (not necessarily causal exposures): - In a prospective cohort, NRAS-mutant primary cutaneous melanomas were associated with greater thickness and higher mitotic activity: “Seventy-five percentage of NRAS mutations occurred in tumors >1 mm thick …” and “Twenty-seven (75%) tumors with NRAS mutations had a mitotic count of >1/mm2 … (P = 0.001).” (devitt2011clinicaloutcomeand pages 1-3) - NRAS mutations were enriched in nodular melanoma in this cohort: “9 (25%) of all NRAS mutations occurring in this subtype (P < 0.001).” (devitt2011clinicaloutcomeand pages 1-3)

Ultraviolet (UV) exposure and chronic sun damage (CSD): Evidence in retrieved sources is mixed depending on the study design and definition. - Devitt et al. reported: “There was no association between chronic sun damage and NRAS mutations.” (devitt2011clinicaloutcomeand pages 1-3) - A 2024 targeted-sequencing cohort notes a molecular classification context where “BRAF and NRAS mutant melanomas correlate with low cumulative sun damage (low-CSD), while NF1 mutants are high-CSD.” (haugh2024targeteddnasequencing pages 1-2)

Given these differences, UV is clearly etiologic for cutaneous melanoma broadly, but the specific relationship between chronic sun damage patterns and NRAS-mutant subtype varies across cohorts and should be represented as heterogeneous evidence rather than a single settled association. (devitt2011clinicaloutcomeand pages 1-3, haugh2024targeteddnasequencing pages 1-2)

2.3 Protective factors

No genotype-specific protective factors were identified in the retrieved sources.

2.4 Gene–environment interactions

Direct gene–environment interaction evidence specific to NRAS-mutant melanoma was not identified in the retrieved sources (beyond the broader context that UV contributes to melanoma mutagenesis and that NRAS hotspot variants are selected by functional constraints). (murphy2022enhancedbrafengagement pages 1-2)


3. Phenotypes

3.1 Clinical and pathological phenotype spectrum

NRAS-mutant melanoma generally presents clinically as cutaneous melanoma, with pathological correlates that may indicate a more aggressive primary tumor phenotype in multiple cohorts.

From Devitt et al. (prospective cohort): - Greater tumor thickness: “Seventy-five percentage of NRAS mutations occurred in tumors >1 mm thick …” (devitt2011clinicaloutcomeand pages 1-3) - Higher mitotic activity: “Twenty-seven (75%) tumors with NRAS mutations had a mitotic count of >1/mm2 … (P = 0.001).” (devitt2011clinicaloutcomeand pages 1-3) - Nodular enrichment: “9 (25%) of all NRAS mutations occurring in this subtype (P < 0.001).” (devitt2011clinicaloutcomeand pages 1-3)

3.2 Onset, severity, progression

Specific age-of-onset distributions for the NRAS-mutant subgroup were not extracted from the retrieved evidence. However, the subgroup is repeatedly described as clinically challenging and (in multiple sources) as associated with poorer prognosis than NRAS-wildtype melanoma. (braud2023initialevidencefor pages 1-3, jaeger2023objectiveresponseto pages 1-2)

3.3 Quality of life impact

NRAS-mutant melanoma–specific quality-of-life measures were not identified in the retrieved sources.

3.4 Suggested HPO terms (phenotype representation suggestions)

These are suggested to structure typical melanoma features and aggressive primary features described above: - Cutaneous melanoma / malignant melanoma: no single HPO term asserted here from evidence; use clinical coding per knowledge base conventions - Increased mitotic activity: HP:0010644 (Increased mitotic activity) (maps to the cohort observation of higher mitotic count) (devitt2011clinicaloutcomeand pages 1-3) - Increased tumor thickness (Breslow): represent as a quantitative pathology attribute (no specific HPO term was retrieved in evidence) - Nodular melanoma subtype: represent as histologic subtype attribute (not strictly an HPO term)


4. Genetic / Molecular Information

4.1 Causal gene

  • NRAS (NRAS proto-oncogene, GTPase) is the defining causal driver gene for the subtype. (phadke2023targetingnrasmutationsinadvanced pages 1-2, braud2023initialevidencefor pages 1-3)

4.2 Pathogenic variants (somatic)

Hotspots: Codon 61 is dominant. - 2023 JCO review: predominant alterations (>80%) at codon 61 (Q61R, Q61L, Q61K). (phadke2023targetingnrasmutationsinadvanced pages 1-2) - 2021 review excerpt: “The majority (~84%) of NRAS mutations occur at codon 61.” (zhao2021novelinsightsinto pages 3-4)

Functional consequence: Gain-of-function with impaired GTPase activity and increased signaling output. - Direct quote: codon 61 variants “serve to impair GTPase activity, locking the gene in a constitutively ON position.” (phadke2023targetingnrasmutationsinadvanced pages 1-2)

4.3 Key downstream pathways and cellular programs

NRAS activation drives multiple signaling cascades. - Devitt et al.: “NRAS ... leads to upregulation of the MAPK pathway, the phosphatidylinositol 3¢ kinase (PI3K) pathway and the RAL pathway.” (devitt2011clinicaloutcomeand pages 1-3) - Phadke & Smalley emphasize strong MAPK activation and note NRAS-mutant melanomas signal via CRAF rather than BRAF (mechanistic framing in the excerpt). (phadke2023targetingnrasmutationsinadvanced pages 1-2)

4.4 Modifier genes / co-alterations (treatment-relevant)

A practical treatment-relevant modifier concept is cell-cycle gene co-alteration. - In the ribociclib+binimetinib trial, response was higher in tumors with NRAS mutation plus concurrent alterations in CDKN2A/CDK4/CCND1 (ORR 32.5% in that subgroup). (braud2023initialevidencefor pages 1-3)

4.5 Epigenetic information

A NRASQ61K;Cdkn2a−/− GEMM study links epigenetic regulation to invasiveness via SALL4 and HDAC2. - “SALL4 negatively regulates invasiveness through interaction with the histone deacetylase (HDAC) 2 …” and “SALL4 loss induces a phenotype switch and the acquisition of an invasive phenotype.” (johanna2021epigeneticcontrolof pages 1-2)

4.6 Suggested ontology terms (GO/Reactome-style; representation suggestions)

Based on pathways explicitly described in evidence: - GO:0000165 (MAPK cascade) — supported by MAPK upregulation statements (devitt2011clinicaloutcomeand pages 1-3) - GO:0014065 (phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase signaling) — supported by PI3K pathway mention (devitt2011clinicaloutcomeand pages 1-3) - GO:0007264 (small GTPase mediated signal transduction) — aligns with NRAS biology (phadke2023targetingnrasmutationsinadvanced pages 1-2)


5. Environmental Information

The retrieved sources did not provide detailed environmental exposure quantification specific to NRAS-mutant melanoma beyond the mixed findings regarding chronic sun damage patterns in relation to NRAS-mutant status. (devitt2011clinicaloutcomeand pages 1-3, haugh2024targeteddnasequencing pages 1-2)


6. Mechanism / Pathophysiology

6.1 Causal chain (high-level)

1) Somatic NRAS activating mutation (most commonly codon 61) impairs GTPase activity, increasing the fraction of NRAS in the active GTP-bound state. (phadke2023targetingnrasmutationsinadvanced pages 1-2, burd2014mutationspecificrasoncogenicity pages 1-3) 2) Active NRAS drives downstream signaling through MAPK and other cascades (PI3K, RAL), increasing proliferation and survival. (devitt2011clinicaloutcomeand pages 1-3) 3) Additional cooperating alterations (e.g., loss of cell-cycle checkpoints such as Cdkn2a/INK4a in experimental models; cell-cycle co-alterations in human tumors) promote tumor initiation/progression and influence therapeutic vulnerabilities. (burd2014mutationspecificrasoncogenicity pages 1-3, braud2023initialevidencefor pages 1-3)

6.2 Codon-specific selection and RAF engagement (mechanistic advances)

Mechanistic work supports that melanoma-enriched NRAS Q61 variants have properties that favor melanoma initiation. - Burd et al. (2014) found NRASQ61R is melanomagenic in vivo (especially with p16INK4a/Cdkn2a loss) while NRASG12D is not, and that enhanced GTP-bound state and stability contribute to oncogenicity. (burd2014mutationspecificrasoncogenicity pages 1-3) - Murphy et al. (2022) used an allelic series of endogenous Nras knock-in models and report that common melanoma-associated Q61 mutants (Q61R, Q61K, Q61L) are potent drivers, and provide a mechanistic basis: melanomagenic Q61 mutants enhance BRAF binding and BRAF–CRAF dimer formation, increasing MAPK→ERK signaling. (murphy2022enhancedbrafengagement pages 1-2)

6.3 Immune microenvironment involvement (preclinical)

In an NRasQ61R/Ink4a−/− GEMM, modulating CXCR2 altered tumor induction and anti-tumor immunity. - Genetic or pharmacologic inhibition of CXCR2 during induction “reduced tumor incidence/growth and increased anti-tumor immunity,” with mechanistic correlates including altered transcriptional programs and reduced AKT/mTOR activation. (yang2023cxcr2expressionduring pages 1-2)

6.4 Suggested Cell Ontology (CL) terms (representation suggestions)

  • CL:0000542 (lymphocyte) and CL:0000624 (CD8-positive, alpha-beta T cell) — relevant given anti-tumor immunity and CD8+ involvement described in mouse immunology context (yang2023cxcr2expressionduring pages 1-2)
  • CL:0000235 (macrophage) — relevant to tumor immune microenvironment modulation studies (yang2023cxcr2expressionduring pages 1-2)

7. Anatomical Structures Affected

7.1 Organ/tissue level

NRAS-mutant melanoma in the retrieved evidence is largely discussed in the context of cutaneous melanoma with primary lesions in the skin and metastatic spread typical of melanoma (not systematically enumerated in the retrieved sources). (devitt2011clinicaloutcomeand pages 1-3, haugh2024targeteddnasequencing pages 1-2)

Suggested UBERON terms (representation suggestions): - UBERON:0002097 (skin of body) - UBERON:0000955 (brain) may be relevant for melanoma metastasis generally, but brain-metastasis-specific NRAS-mutant data were not retrieved here.


8. Temporal Development

Temporal staging/progression patterns specific to NRAS-mutant melanoma were not explicitly extracted from the retrieved sources beyond associations with primary tumor aggressiveness markers (thickness, mitotic rate) and worsened survival metrics in some cohorts. (devitt2011clinicaloutcomeand pages 1-3, haugh2024targeteddnasequencing pages 1-2)


9. Inheritance and Population

9.1 Epidemiology

The retrieved sources did not provide population incidence/prevalence for NRAS-mutant melanoma as a distinct entity. However, multiple sources converge that NRAS mutations occur in ~15–20% of melanomas, which can be used as an approximate subtype fraction among melanoma cases. (phadke2023targetingnrasmutationsinadvanced pages 1-2, braud2023initialevidencefor pages 1-3)

9.2 Inheritance

NRAS-mutant melanoma is primarily defined by somatic tumor mutations rather than a Mendelian inherited pattern in the retrieved evidence. (phadke2023targetingnrasmutationsinadvanced pages 1-2)


10. Diagnostics

10.1 Standard diagnostic approach (as supported in retrieved evidence)

The key diagnostic discriminator for this subtype is tumor genomic testing (targeted NGS panels or hotspot assays) to identify NRAS driver mutations. - A 2024 clinical cohort explicitly uses molecular grouping of cutaneous melanoma into “BRAF mutant, NRAS mutant, NF1 loss, and triple wild type (TWT).” (haugh2024targeteddnasequencing pages 1-2)

10.2 Biomarkers and molecular stratification

  • NRAS mutation status (particularly codon 61) is the defining biomarker. (phadke2023targetingnrasmutationsinadvanced pages 1-2, zhao2021novelinsightsinto pages 3-4)
  • Tumor mutational burden (TMB) may be predictive for benefit from dual checkpoint blockade in melanoma broadly: in one cohort, “Elevated TMB correlated with improved progression-free survival on combination checkpoint inhibition (anti-PD1 plus anti-CTLA4).” (haugh2024targeteddnasequencing pages 1-2)

10.3 Suggested diagnostic ontology terms (representation suggestions)

  • MAXO:0000136 (tumor genomic sequencing / next-generation sequencing) — suggested for molecular classification workflows (haugh2024targeteddnasequencing pages 1-2)

11. Outcome / Prognosis

NRAS mutation status has been associated with worse prognosis in multiple contexts, though effects can vary by cohort and treatment era.

  • Devitt et al. reported NRAS mutations were independently associated with worse melanoma-specific survival: “(hazard ratio (HR) 2.96; P = 0.04).” (devitt2011clinicaloutcomeand pages 1-3)
  • In a 2024 cohort (n=254), “NRAS mutant melanoma demonstrated significantly decreased overall survival on multivariable analysis (HR for death 2.95, 95% CI 1.13–7.69, p = 0.027).” (haugh2024targeteddnasequencing pages 1-2)

These findings support representing NRAS mutation as an adverse prognostic factor in at least some clinical populations, while noting that immunotherapy response may be comparable or better than NRAS-wildtype based on pooled response analyses (below). (haugh2024targeteddnasequencing pages 1-2, jaeger2023objectiveresponseto pages 1-2)


12. Treatment

12.1 Current standard-of-care and real-world implementation

The retrieved sources consistently position immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) as the mainstay systemic therapy for advanced/metastatic NRAS-mutant melanoma, in the absence of an approved direct NRAS inhibitor. (phadke2023targetingnrasmutationsinadvanced pages 1-2, braud2023initialevidencefor pages 1-3)

Evidence synthesis for ICI response by genotype: - Systematic review/meta-analysis (Frontiers in Medicine, Feb 2023): pooled data from 1,770 patients found NRAS-mutant melanoma had a higher likelihood of objective response compared with NRAS-wildtype, effect size 1.28 (95% CI 1.01–1.64). (jaeger2023objectiveresponseto pages 1-2)

12.2 Targeted therapies and combinations (key trials)

No approved targeted therapy for NRAS-mutant melanoma is asserted in the retrieved JCO sources; MEK inhibition has modest activity and is a common development backbone. (phadke2023targetingnrasmutationsinadvanced pages 1-2, braud2023initialevidencefor pages 1-3)

Binimetinib (MEK inhibitor), NEMO trial benchmark: - Reported outcomes (as summarized in retrieved sources): median PFS 2.8 vs 1.5 months (binimetinib vs dacarbazine; HR 0.62), ORR ~15% vs 7%, median OS 11.0 vs 10.1 months (no OS benefit). (queirolo2017binimetinibforthe pages 9-11) - Notable tolerability issues included higher discontinuation for toxicity (25% vs 8%) and frequent dose reductions/interruptions. (queirolo2017binimetinibforthe pages 9-11)

Naporafenib (RAF inhibitor) + trametinib (MEK inhibitor): - In the JCO 2023 expansion arm, ORR reached 46.7% (7/15) at naporafenib 200 mg BID + trametinib 1 mg daily with median PFS 5.52 months; a higher-dose naporafenib cohort had lower ORR (13.3%). (braud2023initialevidencefor pages 1-3)

Ribociclib (CDK4/6 inhibitor) + binimetinib: - Phase Ib/II: ORR 19.5% (8/41) at RP2D; ORR 32.5% in tumors with concurrent CDKN2A/CDK4/CCND1 alterations; median PFS 3.7 months; median OS 11.3 months. (braud2023initialevidencefor pages 1-3)

Treatment evidence artifact (trial summary table):

Therapy/Approach Study (first author, year, journal) Population Key efficacy results (ORR/PFS/OS with numbers) Key safety signals URL/DOI Notes (e.g., line of therapy)
MEK inhibitor: binimetinib vs dacarbazine (NEMO phase III) Dummer 2017, Lancet Oncology; summarized in Phadke 2023, JCO and Queirolo 2017, Expert Rev Anticancer Ther 402 patients with advanced/unresectable or metastatic NRAS-mutant melanoma randomized 2:1 to binimetinib vs dacarbazine Median PFS 2.8 vs 1.5 months (HR 0.62, 95% CI 0.47-0.80); ORR 15% vs 7% (or 15.2% vs 6.8% in summary source); DCR 58% vs 25%; median OS 11.0 vs 10.1 months (HR 1.00, 95% CI 0.75-1.33); prior-immunotherapy subgroup median PFS 5.5 months (phadke2023targetingnrasmutationsinadvanced pages 1-2, queirolo2017binimetinibforthe pages 6-9, queirolo2017binimetinibforthe pages 9-11) More grade 3-4 AEs with binimetinib; increased CPK notable (19% vs 0%); dose reductions 61% vs 16%; interruptions 58% vs 29%; permanent discontinuation for toxicity 25% vs 8%; ocular and cardiac toxicities reported (queirolo2017binimetinibforthe pages 9-11) https://doi.org/10.1016/S1470-2045(17)30180-8; https://doi.org/10.1200/JCO.23.00205; https://doi.org/10.1080/14737140.2017.1374177 First phase III targeted-therapy trial showing activity in NRAS-mutant melanoma, but no OS benefit; generally considered after or outside standard immunotherapy pathways (phadke2023targetingnrasmutationsinadvanced pages 1-2, queirolo2017binimetinibforthe pages 9-11)
Pan-RAF inhibitor + MEK inhibitor: naporafenib + trametinib de Braud 2023, Journal of Clinical Oncology Phase Ib escalation/expansion in advanced/metastatic NRAS-mutant melanoma; expansion arm n=30 (15 per dose cohort) At naporafenib 200 mg BID + trametinib 1 mg QD: ORR 46.7% (7/15; 95% CI 21.3-73.4), median DOR 3.75 months, median PFS 5.52 months. At naporafenib 400 mg BID + trametinib 0.5 mg QD: ORR 13.3% (2/15; 95% CI 1.7-40.5), median DOR 3.75 months, median PFS 4.21 months (braud2023initialevidencefor pages 1-3) All 30 patients had treatment-related AEs; rash 80%; CPK increase, diarrhea, and nausea each 30%; grade >=3 DLTs in escalation included dermatitis acneiform, maculopapular rash, increased lipase, and Stevens-Johnson syndrome (braud2023initialevidencefor pages 1-3) https://doi.org/10.1200/JCO.22.02018 Early signal of higher response than historical MEK monotherapy; basis for later randomized development such as SEACRAFT-2 (trial not detailed here) (braud2023initialevidencefor pages 1-3)
MEK inhibitor + CDK4/6 inhibitor: ribociclib + binimetinib Schuler 2022, Clinical Cancer Research Phase Ib/II NRAS-mutant melanoma; phase II efficacy cohort n=41 at RP2D ORR 19.5% (8/41; 95% CI 8.8-34.9) at RP2D; in patients with concurrent CDKN2A/CDK4/CCND1 alterations, ORR 32.5% (13/40; 95% CI 20.1-48.0); median PFS 3.7 months (95% CI 3.5-5.6); median OS 11.3 months (95% CI 9.3-14.2) (braud2023initialevidencefor pages 1-3) Common toxicities included creatine phosphokinase elevation, rash, edema, anemia, nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue; 10 patients (16.4%) had dose-limiting toxicities in cycle 1 during phase Ib (braud2023initialevidencefor pages 1-3) https://doi.org/10.1158/1078-0432.CCR-21-3872 Rational combination for MAPK plus cell-cycle co-targeting; benefit may be enriched by cell-cycle co-alterations (braud2023initialevidencefor pages 1-3)
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI), genotype-stratified evidence Jaeger 2023, Frontiers in Medicine systematic review and meta-analysis 10 studies; pooled data from 1,770 melanoma patients treated with ICIs comparing NRAS-mutant vs NRAS-wildtype disease Pooled ORR effect size 1.28 (95% CI 1.01-1.64) favoring NRAS-mutant melanoma; conclusion: NRAS-mutant cutaneous melanoma had increased likelihood of partial or complete response relative to NRAS-wildtype melanoma (jaeger2023objectiveresponseto pages 1-2) Meta-analysis focused on response, not pooled toxicity; safety signals not reported in retrieved excerpt (jaeger2023objectiveresponseto pages 1-2) https://doi.org/10.3389/fmed.2023.1090737 Supports current practice in which ICI remains standard of care for advanced NRAS-mutant melanoma despite lack of approved direct NRAS-targeted therapy (phadke2023targetingnrasmutationsinadvanced pages 1-2, jaeger2023objectiveresponseto pages 1-2)

Table: This table summarizes major therapeutic evidence in NRAS-mutant melanoma, including benchmark trial outcomes for MEK inhibition, emerging targeted combinations, and pooled immunotherapy response data. It is useful for comparing efficacy, toxicity, and clinical positioning of the main evidence-supported approaches.

12.3 Suggested MAXO terms (treatment representation suggestions)

  • Immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy (anti–PD-1 / anti–CTLA-4): MAXO terms depend on the ontology version used in the knowledge base; represent as “immune checkpoint blockade” supported as standard care (phadke2023targetingnrasmutationsinadvanced pages 1-2, jaeger2023objectiveresponseto pages 1-2)
  • MEK inhibitor therapy: supported by NEMO and other MEK-inhibitor trials (queirolo2017binimetinibforthe pages 9-11)
  • Combined RAF/MEK inhibition (nMRAS context: naporafenib+trametinib investigational): (braud2023initialevidencefor pages 1-3)
  • CDK4/6 inhibitor + MEK inhibitor combination: (braud2023initialevidencefor pages 1-3)

13. Prevention

No NRAS-mutant–specific prevention strategies were identified in the retrieved sources. Prevention and screening would generally follow cutaneous melanoma recommendations (UV exposure reduction, skin surveillance), but genotype-specific prevention claims cannot be made from the retrieved evidence set.


14. Other Species / Natural Disease

Not addressed in retrieved sources.


15. Model Organisms

NRAS-mutant melanoma has multiple well-established genetically engineered mouse models used to study initiation, progression, metastasis, and immune regulation.

15.1 Key GEMMs and what they show

  • Endogenous conditional Nras Q61 allelic series (Tyr::CreERT2 activation; neonatal UVB cooperation): Q61R, Q61K, Q61L are strong melanoma drivers with high penetrance; Q61P/Q61Q are not, and melanomagenic variants enhance BRAF engagement and BRAF–CRAF dimerization to increase ERK signaling. (murphy2022enhancedbrafengagement pages 1-2)
  • N-RasQ61R knock-in with Cdkn2a/p16INK4a loss: Efficiently promotes melanoma in vivo, whereas N-RasG12D does not; supports codon-61 selection and the relevance of Q61 models for human NRAS-mutant melanoma. (burd2014mutationspecificrasoncogenicity pages 1-3)
  • Tyr::NrasQ61K; Cdkn2a−/− model in epigenetic invasiveness study: Sall4 is re-expressed and “its expression is necessary for primary melanoma formation,” while Sall4 loss promotes micrometastases and induces an invasive phenotype via HDAC2-linked regulation. (johanna2021epigeneticcontrolof pages 1-2)
  • NRasQ61R/Ink4a−/− model in immune microenvironment modulation: CXCR2 loss/inhibition during tumor induction reduces tumor incidence/growth and increases anti-tumor immunity, with associated transcriptional and signaling changes (including reduced AKT/mTOR activation). (yang2023cxcr2expressionduring pages 1-2)

15.2 Model limitations (from retrieved evidence)

Explicit limitations were not systematically discussed in the retrieved excerpts; however, several studies highlight that codon-specific biology and cooperating tumor suppressor contexts can strongly affect phenotype, emphasizing the need to match model genotype to the human tumor context (e.g., Cdkn2a/Ink4a loss, UV exposure paradigms). (burd2014mutationspecificrasoncogenicity pages 1-3, murphy2022enhancedbrafengagement pages 1-2)


Recent Developments and “Latest Research” (prioritizing 2023–2024 in retrieved sources)

1) Targeting strategies remain an unmet need; direct NRAS inhibitors historically lacking: The 2023 JCO review emphasizes the lack of equivalent targeted inhibitors for mutant NRAS in melanoma and focuses on pathway targeting and emerging strategies. (phadke2023targetingnrasmutationsinadvanced pages 1-2)

2) Genotype–immunotherapy response synthesis: A 2023 systematic review/meta-analysis (Frontiers in Medicine; Feb 2023) pooled 10 studies/1,770 patients and found improved objective response likelihood for NRAS-mutant vs NRAS-wildtype melanoma (effect size 1.28). (jaeger2023objectiveresponseto pages 1-2)

3) Emerging targeted combinations with higher response signals: The 2023 JCO phase Ib expansion arm for naporafenib+trametinib reported ORR 46.7% in one dosing cohort, supporting ongoing randomized development. (braud2023initialevidencefor pages 1-3)

4) Clinicogenomic outcome stratification in routine practice cohorts: A 2024 cohort integrating targeted NGS and follow-up reported NRAS-mutant cutaneous melanoma had significantly worse overall survival (multivariable HR ~2.95) and that higher TMB predicted longer PFS on dual checkpoint blockade. (haugh2024targeteddnasequencing pages 1-2)


Evidence gaps relative to the requested template (not found in retrieved sources)

  • MONDO/MeSH/ICD identifiers specific to the “NRAS-mutant melanoma” subtype were not retrieved.
  • Population-level incidence/prevalence statistics (e.g., SEER rates) were not retrieved.
  • Detailed differential diagnosis and histopathology/IHC marker panels were not retrieved.
  • NRAS-mutant–specific prevention and screening guidelines were not retrieved.

URLs and publication dates (from retrieved evidence)

  • Phadke MS, Smalley KSM. Journal of Clinical Oncology. May 2023. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1200/JCO.23.00205 (phadke2023targetingnrasmutationsinadvanced pages 1-2)
  • de Braud F et al. Journal of Clinical Oncology. May 2023. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1200/JCO.22.02018 (braud2023initialevidencefor pages 1-3)
  • Jaeger ZJ et al. Frontiers in Medicine. Feb 2023. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3389/fmed.2023.1090737 (jaeger2023objectiveresponseto pages 1-2)
  • Devitt B et al. Pigment Cell & Melanoma Research. Aug 2011. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1755-148X.2011.00873.x (devitt2011clinicaloutcomeand pages 1-3)
  • Haugh AM et al. Cancers. Jan 2024. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16071347 (haugh2024targeteddnasequencing pages 1-2)
  • Murphy BM et al. Nature Communications. Jun 2022. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-022-30881-9 (murphy2022enhancedbrafengagement pages 1-2)
  • Burd CE et al. Cancer Discovery. Dec 2014. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1158/2159-8290.CD-14-0729 (burd2014mutationspecificrasoncogenicity pages 1-3)
  • Diener J et al. Nature Communications. Aug 2021. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-021-25326-8 (johanna2021epigeneticcontrolof pages 1-2)
  • Yang J et al. Molecular Cancer. Jun 2023. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12943-023-01789-9 (yang2023cxcr2expressionduring pages 1-2)
  • Queirolo P, Spagnolo F. Expert Review of Anticancer Therapy. Sep 2017. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/14737140.2017.1374177 (queirolo2017binimetinibforthe pages 9-11)

References

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