Wnt family member 7B (commonly referred to as Protein Wnt-7b) (WNT7B)

Wnt family member 7B (WNT7B) is a secreted signaling protein encoded by the human WNT7B gene[1][2][6][7]. It is a ligand for members of the Frizzled family of seven-transmembrane receptors and acts mainly through the canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway[4][5]. WNT7B plays critical roles in embryonic development, including kidney cortico-medullary axis formation, placental fusion, lung and bone formation, dendrite development, and central nervous system angiogenesis[1][2][3][5]. Aberrant activity or signaling of WNT7B is associated with developmental disorders, bone metabolism anomalies, and several cancers[1][3][5][7]. In experimental models, WNT7B has strong bone anabolic effects, suggesting therapeutic potential for osteoporosis and fracture healing when properly modulated[3][5]. Its pleiotropic effects require careful control to avoid adverse consequences such as tumorigenesis or tissue dysplasia[5][7].

Other names

Protein Wnt-7bWnt-7bWNT7BWingless-type MMTV integration site family, member 7B

Inhibition of Wnt ligand secretion/modification (e.g., PORCN inhibitors block palmitoleoylation, reducing Wnt secretion); Blocking ligand-receptor interaction at the Frizzled receptor or LRP5/6; β-catenin degradation and prevention of downstream signaling; Modulation by R-spondin family and other extracellular regulators