Conclusions
This novel mechanism suggests that Wnt4 acts as a switch between the two modes of beta-catenin function, transcriptional activation and cell-cell adhesion.
Results
Here, we show that a member of the Wnt protein family, Wnt4 (Wnt, member 4), regulates the subcellular localization of beta-catenin, redirecting it to the cell membrane. Unique among Wnts, this action does not affect the stability of beta-catenin but does prohibit its involvement in TCF gene transactivation. Conclusions: This novel mechanism suggests that Wnt4 acts as a switch between the two modes of beta-catenin function, transcriptional activation and cell-cell adhesion.