Update on genetic events in the pathogenesis of melanoma

Melanoma is the most common fatal malignancy among young adults, and its in cidence and mortality continue to increase at an alarming rate. Epidemiolog ic studies have clearly demonstrated roles for genetic predisposition and s un exposure in melanoma development. In the past few years, substantial inf ormation has been added to the body of evidence suggesting that inherited a nd somatic genetic events contribute to the pathogenesis of melanoma. This review focuses on recent advances in the understanding of the genetic event s, particularly aberration of cell cycle control and transcriptional contro l mechanisms, implicated in the pathogenesis of melanoma. Curr Opin Oncol 2 001, 13:129-136 (C) 2001 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc.