Definition

A type of mutation (change) in the BRAF gene that causes a mutant form of the BRAF protein to be made. This results in uncontrolled cell division and growth, which can lead to cancer. Drugs that target this mutant BRAF protein may kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. The BRAF V600 mutation is most commonly found in melanoma, but it may also be found in some other types of cancer, including cancers of the colon, rectum, lung, thyroid, ovary, and brain. Checking for the BRAF V600 mutation in tumor tissue may help plan cancer treatment. There are different forms of the BRAF V600 mutation, including V600E and V600K. V600E is the most common form.