Understanding Mutations in the RAS Family of Genes
Mutations in the RAS family of genes (KRAS, NRAS, HRAS) commonly occur in cancers and represent one of the most common driver mutations in cancers. As such, considerable efforts have been made to target these mutant genes to advance new therapeutic strategies to combat cancers.
It is thought that 30% of all cancer deaths are related to RAS mutations. These occur most commonly in solid tumors such as lung cancer, gastrointestinal cancers, malignant melanoma and various leukemias and myelomas. Amongst gastrointestinal cancers, the vast majority of pancreatic cancers harbor KRAS mutations, and many colorectal cancers harbor KRAS mutations.
Moffitt has therefore a strong interest in developing new therapies that can help patients with RAS mutations. RAS mutations are commonly assessed using next-generation DNA sequencing panels, either using tumor material or blood-based assays. Within each type of RAS gene, there can be specific mutations that require specific therapies. For example, KRAS G12C mutations are common in lung cancer and can be targeted with existing FDA-approved compounds such as adagrasib and sotorasib. However, more agents are under development that can target each gene and individual mutations.
Aided by our Precision Medicine team and our extensive clinical trial portfolio, we have increased the opportunities for patients to receive new and promising agents that target RAS mutations and have multiple additional RAS clinical trials in the pipeline that will be opening to accrual soon.
To inquire more about clinical trials for RAS mutations or refer a patient with cancer or a suspicious tumor finding, please complete our online form or contact a physician liaison for assistance. As part of our efforts to shorten referral times as much as possible, online referrals are typically responded to within 24 - 48 hours.