A critical role of FAK signaling in Rac1-driven melanoma cell resistance to MAPK pathway inhibition.

ABSTRACT: The Rac1 P29S hotspot mutation in cutaneous melanoma is associated with resistance to MAPK pathway inhibitors (MAPKi) and worse clinical outcomes. Moreover, activation of Rac1 guanine exchange factors (GEFs) also promotes MAPKi-resistance, particularly in undifferentiated melanoma cells. Here we delineate mechanisms of Rac1-driven MAPKi-resistance and identify strategies to inhibit the growth of this class of cutaneous melanomas. We find that Rac1-driven melanomas manifest pleiotropic resistance mechanisms including (i) reduced dependence on BRAF/MEK, (ii) activation of alternative MAPK pathways utilizing Jun kinase and p38 MAP kinase, and (iii) a partial reliance on YAP/TAZ signaling. Importantly, although Rac1-driven melanoma cells display reduced dependence on BRAF/MEK, they are not com

SUBMITTER: Riordan JD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12602353 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature