Metastatic melanoma is an aggressive malignancy lacking molecular markers predictive of patient outcome as well as effective therapies. The molecular genetics of melanoma has not been fully characterized. Recent advances in high-resolution genomic hybridization and high throughput sequencing methods provide opportunities for further characterization of the cancer genome. In our previous studies, we identified recurrent narrow amplifications and deletions by genome-wide BAC array comparative genomic hybridization analysis of metastatic melanoma samples. Our copy number data suggested the presence of chromosomal regions with previously undefined genetic events. Notably, we recently described GAB2 amplifications in a subset of acral melanomas as a novel genetic event, and demonstrated its critical role in melanoma metastasis via activation of the PI3K-AKT signaling. Based on our previous work, we will now pursue studies to characterize novel oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes critical for melanoma metastasis. We will pursue two linked specific aims, using a combination of genetic, biologic, and clinical approaches. (1) Defining and validating candidate genes mutated in metastatic melanoma by whole exome sequencing approach, mapping the mutated genes within amplifications and deletions, and selecting candidates. (2) Mutational profiling and functional assays will characterize the candidate gene and explore oncogenic and tumor suppressive function in melanoma. The studies in this proposal expand our knowledge on molecular genetics of melanoma by utilizing state-of- the-art technology including high throughput next generation sequencing, aim to identify novel oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes of potential high clinical significance, and include present and future studies for molecular diagnosis and outcome prediction. The studies in this proposal aim to translate knowledge gained from molecular genetics into tools that can be used in clinical decision-making.

Public Health Relevance

The molecular genetics of melanoma has not been fully characterized. Our proposed studies will lead to identification of a bona fide oncogene or a tumor suppressor gene that is somatically mutated in human melanoma.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Type
Exploratory/Developmental Grants (R21)
Project #
1R21CA158557-01A1
Application #
8237823
Study Section
Cancer Genetics Study Section (CG)
Program Officer
Thurin, Magdalena
Project Start
2012-02-29
Project End
2014-01-31
Budget Start
2012-02-29
Budget End
2013-01-31
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
2012
Total Cost
$223,208
Indirect Cost
$83,703
Name
Columbia University (N.Y.)
Department
Dermatology
Type
Schools of Medicine
DUNS #
621889815
City
New York
State
NY
Country
United States
Zip Code
10032
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Aydin, Iraz T; Melamed, Rachel D; Adams, Sarah J et al. (2014) FBXW7 mutations in melanoma and a new therapeutic paradigm. J Natl Cancer Inst 106:dju107