Genetic diversity in melanomagenesis: a comprehensive analysis of BRAF, NRAS, KIT and novel mutations across melanoma subtypes

Melanomagenesis in the Turkish population demonstrates substantial genetic diversity with population-specific mutation patterns that diverge from Western paradigms. The absence of BRAF mutations in superficial spreading melanomas suggests distinct genetic pathways potentially related to different UV exposure patterns, genetic susceptibility, or gene-environment interactions. These findings have important implications for precision medicine, as therapeutic strategies developed in Western populations may require adaptation for diverse ethnic groups. Comprehensive genomic profiling including NF1 in larger multi-institutional cohorts is needed to fully characterize population-specific melanomagenesis mechanisms.