Metabolomic analyses of human tumors and mouse models of cancer have identified key roles for autophagy in supporting mitochondrial metabolism and homeostasis. In this review, we highlight data suggesting that autophagy inhibition may be particularly effective in BRAF-driven malignancies. Catalytic BRAF inhibitors have profound efficacy in tumors carrying activating mutations in Braf but are limited by the rapid emergence of resistance due in part to increased mitochondrial biogenesis and heightened rates of oxidative phosphorylation. We suggest that combined inhibition of autophagy and BRAF may overcome this limitation.

Significance: Braf ^V600E-driven tumors require autophagy and likely autophagy-provided substrates to maintain mitochondrial metabolism and to promote tumor growth, suggesting that autophagy ablation may improve cancer therapy. Cancer Discov; 4(7); 766–72. ©2014 AACR.