Abstract
Signaling by the Wnt family of secreted glycolipoproteins via the transcriptional coactivator beta-catenin controls embryonic development and adult homeostasis. Here we review recent progress in this so-called canonical Wnt signaling pathway. We discuss Wnt ligands, agonists, and antagonists, and their interactions with Wnt receptors. We also dissect critical events that regulate beta-catenin stability, from Wnt receptors to the cytoplasmic beta-catenin destruction complex, and nuclear machinery that mediates beta-catenin-dependent transcription. Finally, we highlight some key aspects of Wnt/beta-catenin signaling in human diseases including congenital malformations, cancer, and osteoporosis, and discuss potential therapeutic implications.
Publication types
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Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
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Review
MeSH terms
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Active Transport, Cell Nucleus / physiology
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Animals
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Axin Protein
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Disease*
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Frizzled Receptors / metabolism
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Humans
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Ligands
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Low Density Lipoprotein Receptor-Related Protein-6
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Receptors, LDL / metabolism
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Repressor Proteins / genetics
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Repressor Proteins / metabolism
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Signal Transduction / physiology*
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TCF Transcription Factors / metabolism
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Wnt Proteins / agonists
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Wnt Proteins / antagonists & inhibitors
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Wnt Proteins / metabolism*
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beta Catenin / metabolism*
Substances
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Axin Protein
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Frizzled Receptors
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LRP6 protein, human
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Ligands
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Low Density Lipoprotein Receptor-Related Protein-6
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Receptors, LDL
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Repressor Proteins
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TCF Transcription Factors
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Wnt Proteins
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beta Catenin