Isolation of a Receptor for WNT/Wingless Growth Factors
Abstract
The work done in this grant was aimed at elucidating the function of the Wnt signaling molecules in cancer, in particular at isolating a receptor. Wnt proteins are secreted and play important growth controlling roles, in particular in the mammary gland. They can act as oncogenes in mouse mammary tumors. Using cell biological and biochemical approaches we succeeded in finding a receptor for wingless called frizzled. We have further characterized this receptor, and we have obtained genetic proof that this receptor is required for wingless signaling in vivo by generating mutations in the receptor gene. We have also isolated a novel gene in Drosophila that modifies wingless signaling, tartaruga This gene is highly conserved, encodes a component of histone de-acetylase activity and may be involved in Wnt regulation in vertebrates as well. We expect that these findings are not only going to be important for basic research but also for the treatment of cancer, including breast cancer. Specific cell surface receptors, such as the Frizzleds, are important targets for therapeutic intervention. Moreover, point mutations in those receptors may occur in human cells and lead to abnormal growth.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1999
- Accession Number
- ADA382531
Entities
People
- Roel Nusse
Organizations
- Stanford University