Somatic mutations in CTNNB1 (Beta-catenin) have been found in ~2-3% of malignant melanomas. Preclinical models have demonstrated that concurrent mutations in Beta-catenin and NRAS are synergistic in promoting melanoma formation.
Citations
Delmas et al.. Beta-catenin induces immortalization of melanocytes by suppressing p16INK4a expression and cooperates with N-Ras in melanoma development. Genes Dev. 2007 Nov 15;21(22):2923-35