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 seven Wnt genes are expressed in the developing mammary gland. One of these, Wnt-7a, appears to be required for epithelial branching in the adult mammary gland. In contrast, Wnt-6, Wnt-lOa and Wnt-lOb, are expressed at the earliest stages suggesting roles in induction and growth of the embryonic mammary gland. Recent evidence indicates that Frizzled members encode Wnt-receptors, and that Lef-l and Lmx-lb are transcriptional mediators of Wnt-signaling. In this regard we have demonstrated that Fz-6 is expressed in the embryonic mammary gland, consistent with transducing Wnt signals, and nmx-lb, like Lef-l, is required for mammary gland development. We are using a combination of transplantation and transgenic procedures to further explore these pathways. Our hope is that a better understanding of normal development of the mammary gland will provide new insights into possible mechanisms underlying tumor formation.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA337595
Entities
People
- Andrew P. Mcmahon
Organizations
- Harvard University