braf mutation as a biomarker in colorectal cancer

Anna M Varghese Leonard B Saltz Department of Medicine, Division of Solid Tumor Oncology, Gastrointestinal Oncology Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA Abstract: Nearly 10% of colorectal cancers (CRCs) harbor mutations in BRAF. While cytotoxic chemotherapy remains central to the treatment for patients with metastatic CRC, there is a growing understanding that CRC is comprised of molecularly and clinically distinct populations. BRAF-mutant CRC is one such subset. We are learning more about the complexity of BRAF-mutant CRCs and the ways in which patients with BRAF-mutant CRCs may or may not benefit from targeted therapies. This article reviews the role of BRAF as a biomarker in CRC and its implications for treatment. Keywords: personalized medicine, colorectal cancer, BRAF