β-catenin (CTNNB1)

β-catenin stabilization in macrophages refers to the process by which levels of β-catenin protein increase and remain active within macrophages. This stabilization activates the canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, leading to nuclear translocation and transcriptional changes in macrophage behavior. β-catenin is a multifunctional protein primarily known for its roles in cell adhesion and in regulating gene transcription downstream of the Wnt signaling pathway. In macrophages, stabilization of β-catenin means that the protein escapes degradation, accumulates in the cytoplasm, and translocates to the nucleus, where it regulates gene expression through interaction with TCF/LEF transcription factors. This process modulates macrophage phenotype, including the shift toward an alternatively activated (M2) state and impacts immune responses, tissue repair, fibrosis, and tumor progression.

Other names

Beta-cateninCTNNB1Armadillo protein

Inhibition of β-catenin–dependent gene transcription; Promotion or blockade of β-catenin stability/degradation; Modulation of exosome release affecting cell signaling