WNT-Signals and the Regulation of Normal and Cancerous Growth in the Mammary Gland.
Abstract
Wnt genes encode a large family of secreted signaling molecules related to the Drosophila pattern regulating gene wingless. Several members of the Wnt family are implicated in mammary tumorigenesis suggesting that Wnt-activated pathways are a normal component of mammary gland development. Consistent with this hypothesis, we have demonstrated that six Wnt genes are expressed in the developing mammary gland. Two of these, Wnt-6 and Wnt-lO, are expressed from the earliest stages suggesting roles in induction and growth of the mammary gland. To address their functions, we are analyzing their expression in detail and have initiated approaches to generate mutants. Further, we are developing strategies which will eventually allow tissue specific activation and mutation of genes in the mammary epithelium. Finally, recent work suggests that frizzleds encode wingless receptors. We have initiated studies examining frizzleds in the mammary gland. Frizzled-6 is expressed quite specifically in the early mammary gland. It seems reasonable to expect that an understanding of Wnt/frizzled interactions will afford new insights into normal development of the mammary gland, and the pathways that lead to tumor formation.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1996
- Accession Number
- ADA322063
Entities
People
- Andrew P. Mcmahon
Organizations
- Harvard University