Recent Advances in Genetically Engineered Mouse Models of Melanoma: Insights into Tumor Initiation and Oncogenic Signaling Pathways

Genetically engineered mouse models are crucial for understanding melanoma, as they mimic human skin structure and allow for the study of melanoma initiation and progression. Recent advances have identified key oncogenic signaling pathways, such as MAPK and PI3K, and additional pathways like Cdk4, Jak-Stat, Hippo-Yap/Taz, and the p62-Igf2bp1 axis, along with epigenetic regulators like Tet2, which contribute to melanoma's heterogeneity and phenotypic plasticity. These insights from GEM models enhance our understanding of melanoma biology and help identify potential therapeutic targets.