Author Response: Crosstalk With Keratinocytes Causes GNAQ Oncogene Specificity in Melanoma

The study explored the role of GNAQ oncogene specificity in melanoma, particularly its interaction with keratinocytes. The authors initially included an analysis of PLCB4 mutations, suggesting a potential role in melanoma, but this was criticized for lacking robustness and was ultimately removed from the manuscript. The study demonstrated that oncogenic GNAQ inhibits melanocyte growth and survival in the epidermis, with PLC-Β as a likely downstream effector. Despite initial claims, the evidence for PLCB4 as a significant factor in melanoma was not compelling, leading to its exclusion. The research highlighted the influence of the microenvironment on the oncogenic impact of GNAQ mutations, using various experimental methods to support these findings. The study's conclusions were strengthened by focusing on the functional data related to GNAQ, while speculative elements, such as the Semaphorin mechanism, were downplayed.