Wnt-3a protein (Wnt3A)

Wnt-3a protein (Wnt3A) is a secreted glycoprotein belonging to the Wnt family that acts as a critical ligand in the canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway[1][4]. Upon secretion, Wnt-3a binds to cell-surface Frizzled (FZD) receptors and LRP5/6 co-receptors, leading to the inhibition of β-catenin destruction. This allows β-catenin to accumulate in the cytoplasm and translocate to the nucleus, where it activates transcription of genes regulating cell proliferation, cell fate, and differentiation[1][5][7]. Wnt-3a is essential for embryonic development, stem cell maintenance, neural and skeletal patterning, intestinal stem cell proliferation, and hematopoiesis[4][7][9]. Aberrant Wnt3A signaling promotes oncogenesis and can drive the growth of certain cancers by continuously activating Wnt target genes[1][4][7]. Wnt3A requires lipid modification by Porcupine (PORCN) and interaction with the transporter protein Wntless (WLS) for secretion; these processes are current drug targets in Wnt-driven diseases[2][8]. If instead you are referring to the broader "Wnt signaling pathway" as the target, substitute the canonical_name with "Wnt signaling pathway," set canonical_abbreviation to null, and molecular_classifications to "Signaling pathway." However, for drug targeting and biomarker use, the Wnt-3a protein is the actionable molecular target.

Other names

WNT3AProtein Wnt-3a

Inhibition of Wnt ligand secretion (via PORCN inhibition) Antagonism of Wnt binding to Frizzled/LRP5/6 receptors