Frequent allelic changes at chromosome 7q34 but lack of mutation of the BRAF in papillary renal cell tumors

We have analyzed the BRAF locus on chromosome 7q34 with microsatellites for allelic changes and exons I I and 15 of the BRAF with sequencing for mutations in SO kidney cancers including 20 papillary, IS conventional and IS chromophobe renal cell carcinomas (RCC). Allelic changes at the BRAF locus were seen in 16 of the 20 papillary, 3 of the 15 conventional RCCs and 2 of the 15 chromophobe RCCs. Sequencing failed to disclose mutations in exons I I and IS of the BRAF gene in any of the tumors. Our data indicate that BRAF mutation does not play a role in the development of renal cell tumors. (C) 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.