RET rearrangement
Pronunciation: RET ree-uh-RAYNJ-ment
A chromosomal translocation involving the RET gene found in lung adenocarcinomas, creating fusion proteins targetable with selective RET inhibitors.
Full Definition
RET rearrangements occur in approximately 1-2% of lung adenocarcinomas and represent an important oncogenic driver mutation. The most common fusion partners include KIF5B-RET, CCDC6-RET, and NCOA4-RET, which result in constitutive activation of RET kinase activity. These rearrangements are typically mutually exclusive with other driver mutations and are more commonly seen in younger patients and never-smokers. Patients with RET-rearranged tumors can be treated with selective RET inhibitors such as selpercatinib or pralsetinib, which have shown superior efficacy compared to multi-kinase inhibitors with RET activity.
Usage
Usage note: Specify fusion partner when known, as different fusions may have varying treatment responses.
In Context
- "Comprehensive genomic profiling identified a KIF5B-RET rearrangement, prompting treatment with selpercatinib." — Precision oncology consultation
- "The patient's adenocarcinoma harbored a RET rearrangement with CCDC6 as the fusion partner." — Molecular pathology report