The prognostic value of BRAF mutation in colorectal cancer and melanoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Mutation of BRAF is a predominant event in cancers with poor prognosis such as melanoma and colorectal cancer. BRAF mutation leads to a constitutive activation of mitogen activated protein kinase pathway which is essential for cell proliferation and tumor progression. Despite tremendous efforts made to target BRAF for cancer treatment, the correlation between BRAF mutation and patient survival is still a matter of controversy.

Methods/principal findings

Clinical studies on the correlation between BRAF mutation and patient survival were retrieved from MEDLINE and EMBASE databases between June 2002 and December 2011. One hundred twenty relevant full text studies were categorized based on study design and cancer type. Publication bias was evaluated for each category

SUBMITTER: Safaee Ardekani G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3467229 | biostudies-literature | 2012

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature