WNT-1 Signaling in Mammary Carcinogenesis
Abstract
Wnt genes encode a large family of secreted signaling molecules essential for development and oncogenesis. wnt- 1, the founding member of the wnt gene family, was initially identified as an oncogene. Ectopic wnt- 1 expression causes mammary tumorigenesis in mice, providing a potential model for human breast cancer. However, the cell surface receptor (or receptors) that mediates Wnt- 1 signaling has not been identified, and the molecular and biochemical nature of the Wnt signaling pathway is not fully understood. In a research supported in part by this Career Development Award, we identified a member of the LDL receptor-related protein (LRP) family, LRP6, as a Wnt- 1 co-receptor. We demonstrated that LRP6 binds to Wnt- 1, and forms a complex with Fz in response to Wnt- 1. Recently, we also identified a potent Wnt- 1 signaling antagonist, Dickkopf- 1 (Dkk- 1), as a ligand for LRP6. These results have important implications in our understanding of Wnt-l signaling in development and oncogenesis.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA393435
Entities
People
- Xi He