Ras and Raf pathways in epidermis development and carcinogenesis.

University of Vienna, Center for Molecular Biology, Max F. Perutz Laboratories, Doktor-Bohr-Gasse 9, A-1030 Vienna, Austria.

British journal of cancer 2011 Jan 18

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The epidermis is the outermost layer of the body and protects it from environmental insults. This crucial function is sustained by a continuous process of self-renewal involving the carefully balanced proliferation and differentiation of progenitor cells constantly replacing the mature cells at the surface of the epidermis. Genetic changes in the signalling pathways controlling keratinocyte proliferation and differentiation disrupt this balance and lead to pathological changes including carcinogenesis. This review discusses the role of Ras, an oncogene critically involved in the development of skin neoplasia, and its downstream effector Raf in epidermal homeostasis and tumourigenesis. In particular, we will focus on the recently established role of Raf-1 as the decisive element that, by restraining keratinocyte differentiation, allows the development and maintenance of Ras-driven tumours.

Citation

F Kern, T Niault, M Baccarini. Ras and Raf pathways in epidermis development and carcinogenesis. British journal of cancer. 2011 Jan 18;104(2):229-34