Wnt/beta-Catenin Pathway
The Wnt/β-Catenin pathway regulates cell proliferation, polarity, stem cell pluripotency and cell fate decisions during embryonic development and tissue homeostasis. Given this pathway’s crucial role in development and homeostasis, it is not surprising that dysregulation is associated with many hereditary disorders, bone metabolism, hair growth, diabetes, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancer. Wnt agonists have been used in the treatment of osteoporosis, and small molecules that disrupt or block β-Catenin signaling have been used to assist in the renewal or repair of bone, hair, or damaged intestinal epithelia. The study and manipulation of this pathway holds promise for translational and regenerative medicine.