Insight into the emerging role of long non-coding RNAs in BRAF inhibitor resistance in melanoma

Melanoma is the deadliest type of skin cancer, arising from melanocytes, and its global incidence continues to rise. Although multiple somatic mutations contribute towards melanoma development, but the BRAF mutation is the most prevalent. The FDA approval of targeted therapies for BRAF-mutant melanoma greatly increased overall survival in considerable number of patients. However, the majority of patients eventually developed resistance against BRAF inhibitors (BRAFi) and the underlying mechanisms still under explorations. Recent research has revealed that long noncding RNAs (lncRNAs) are closely linked to the development and progression of several malignancies, including melanoma. However, the connection between lncRNA expression profiles and acquired resistance to melanoma BRAFi is in the early stages of research. Herein, we present a current summary of the ways by which lncRNAs either restore melanoma cell susceptibility to BRAFi or cause resistance. Additionally, we have also discussed the potential of lncRNAs role as prognostic indicators of response and resistance to BRAFi therapy in melanoma.