Comparative Expression Profiling Reveals Molecular Markers Involved in the Progression of Cutaneous Melanoma towards Metastasis

Cutaneous melanoma is one of the most aggressive types of cancer and often proves fatal in metastatic stages. Few treatment options are available, and its global incidence is quickly increasing. In order to gain an improved understanding of the molecular features regarding melanoma progression, we have compared gene and small non-coding RNA expression profiles from cell lines derived from primary melanoma (MelJuSo), lymph node metastasis (MNT-1) and brain metastasis (VMM1), representing distinct stages of malignant progression. Our preliminary results highlighted the aberrant regulation of molecular markers involved in several processes that aid melanoma progression and metastasis development, including extracellular matrix remodeling, migratory potential and angiogenesis. Moreover, bioinformatic analysis revealed potential targets of the microRNAs of interest. Confocal microscopy and immunohistochemistry analysis were used for validation at the protein level. Exploring the molecular landscape of melanoma may contribute to the achievement of future efficient targeted therapy, as well as better prevention, diagnosis and clinical management.