BRAF

gene

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Last updated

July 18, 2026

Quick Summary

The BRAF gene produces a protein called B-raf, which is a kinase that plays a key role in transmitting signals within cells. These signals regulate cell differentiation and prevent programmed cell death.1

About 50 percent of melanomas are linked to mutations in the BRAF gene. These mutations lead to a constantly active B-raf kinase, causing uncontrolled cell proliferation and initiating cancer cells that lead to melanoma. These BRAF mutations are often acquired due to overexposure to ultraviolet radiation.1

While BRAF is not a tumor suppressor gene, alterations in genes like BRAF are fundamental to how cells develop abnormal behaviors, leading to cancer.21

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melanoma
Causes and symptoms
…in a gene known as BRAF, which produces a protein called B-raf. B-raf is a kinase—a type of enzyme specializing in the transmission of intracellular signals from cell surface receptors to proteins that communicate with the cell nucleus. B-raf plays a central role in the carefully regulated transmission of cellular
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…in a gene known as BRAF, which produces a protein called B-raf. B-raf is a kinase—a type of enzyme specializing in the transmission of intracellular signals from cell surface receptors to proteins that communicate with the cell nucleus. B-raf plays a central role in the carefully regulated transmission of cellular
Read More