Dickkopf-3 (DKK3)

Dickkopf-3 (DKK3) is a secreted glycoprotein and part of the Dickkopf family of Wnt pathway modulators. Unlike other Dickkopf proteins, DKK3 has broad biological roles, participating in development, stem cell differentiation, tissue homeostasis, vascular regeneration, and immunity. DKK3 acts in a context-dependent fashion, functioning as a tumor suppressor or, paradoxically, as an oncogene in different cancers. Elevated DKK3 has also been implicated in renal fibrosis, cardiac remodeling, and cartilage protection. Its unique protein structure distinguishes it from related family members and mediates interactions with extracellular matrix and cell-surface receptors. DKK3 is actively investigated as a therapeutic target and biomarker for cancer, cardiovascular, renal, inflammatory, and neurodegenerative diseases.

Other names

DKK-3REIC (Reduced Expression in Immortalized Cells)CERC5Dickkopf WNT signaling pathway inhibitor 3Dickkopf-related protein 3

Inhibition of Wnt/β-catenin signaling (reported in some contexts, though impact may be indirect); Modulation of immune response via cytokine/chemokine regulation; Promotion or inhibition of cell differentiation through transcription factor pathways (ASK1-JNK/p38, MEK/ERK/ATF6); Regulation of angiogenesis via VEGF pathways; Induction/suppression of fibrosis through T cell-mediated responses.