Wnt family member 5A (WNT5A) (WNT5A)

Wnt family member 5A (WNT5A) is a secreted signaling glycoprotein that belongs to the Wnt family and primarily activates non-canonical pathways, such as the Wnt/Ca2+ and planar cell polarity (PCP) pathways [1, 2]. It is a critical regulator of embryonic development, influencing cell polarity, migration, and tissue morphogenesis [2]. In adult physiology, WNT5A is involved in inflammatory responses and tissue homeostasis [5]. Its role in oncology is complex and context-dependent; it acts as a tumor suppressor in breast and colorectal cancers but functions as a pro-metastatic oncogene in melanoma and gastric cancer [4]. Therapeutic strategies include the use of the mimetic peptide Foxy-5 to restore WNT5A signaling in deficient tumors, thereby reducing metastatic potential [3]. Conversely, antagonists and mRNA-targeting strategies are being explored to inhibit WNT5A in cancers where it promotes invasion [4]. Monitoring WNT5A mRNA and protein levels serves as a vital biomarker for patient selection and predicting therapeutic efficacy [3, 4].

Other names

WNT5AWingless-type MMTV integration site family member 5AhWNT5AWnt-5a

Activation of non-canonical Wnt signaling (mimetic) or inhibition of WNT5A-receptor interactions (antagonist) to modulate cell migration and metastasis.