A critical role for endocytosis in Wnt signaling
2006

Endocytosis is important for Wnt signaling

publication Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Jeremy T Blitzer, Roel Nusse

Primary Institution: Stanford University School of Medicine

Hypothesis

Does endocytosis play a critical role in Wnt signaling?

Conclusion

Endocytosis is essential for Wnt signaling, as it occurs in a compartment distinct from the plasma membrane.

Supporting Evidence

  • Wnt proteins are rapidly taken into cells through endocytosis.
  • Blocking endocytosis prevents Wnt signaling from occurring.
  • Internalized Wnts may signal from a specific compartment within the cell.

Takeaway

The study shows that cells need to take in Wnt proteins through a process called endocytosis for the signaling to work properly.

Methodology

The study used L cells to examine the role of endocytosis in Wnt signaling through various inhibitors and transfections.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2121-7-28

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