Response and resistance to BRAFV600E inhibition in gliomas: Roadblocks ahead?

BRAF(V600E) represents the most common BRAF mutation in all human cancers. Among central nervous system (CNS) tumors, BRAF(V600E) is mostly found in pediatric low-grade gliomas (pLGG, similar to 20%) and, less frequently, in pediatric high-grade gliomas (pHGG, 5-15%) and adult glioblastomas (GBM, similar to 5%). The integration of BRAF inhibitors (BRAFi) in the treatment of patients with gliomas brought a paradigm shift to clinical care. However, not all patients benefit from treatment due to intrinsic or acquired resistance to BRAF inhibition. Defining predictors of response, as well as developing strategies to prevent resistance to BRAFi and overcome post-BRAFi tumor progression/rebound growth are some of the main challenges at present in the field. In this review, we outline current achievements and limitations of BRAF inhibition in gliomas, with a special focus on potential mechanisms of resistance. We discuss future directions of targeted therapy for BRAF(V600E) mutated gliomas, highlighting how insights into resistance to BRAFi could be leveraged to improve outcomes.

Automated summary

BRAF(V600E) is the most common BRAF mutation in human cancers. It is found primarily in pediatric low-grade gliomas (20%), and less frequently in pediatric high-grade gliomas (5-15%) and adult glioblastomas (5%). While BRAF inhibitors have improved clinical care for patients with gliomas, not all patients benefit due to resistance to BRAF inhibition. This review summarizes the current achievements and limitations of BRAF inhibition in gliomas, and discusses potential mechanisms of resistance and future directions for targeted therapy.