Wnt family member 9A (WNT9A)

Wnt family member 9A (WNT9A), previously known as WNT14, is a secreted signaling glycoprotein and a member of the Wnt family, which consists of proteins involved in crucial developmental and homeostatic processes. WNT9A binds to Frizzled-family G protein–coupled receptors on the cell surface to activate the canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, regulating gene expression patterns involved in cell fate, proliferation, and differentiation. It is essential for normal progression of embryonic bone and joint development, particularly in chondrocyte maturation and synovial joint formation. WNT9A is expressed in both normal and cancerous tissues, and its dysregulation has been associated with developmental disorders, fibrosis, and cancer.

Other names

Protein Wnt-9aWNT14Protein Wnt-14wingless-type MMTV integration site family, member 9Awingless-type MMTV integration site family, member 14

Inhibition or modulation of Wnt ligand–receptor interaction (for Wnt pathway inhibitors, not WNT9A-specific); Blockade of Wnt/β-catenin signaling cascade (general for Wnt pathway, e.g., by targeting Porcupine [PORCN], Frizzled, or other Wnt pathway elements)