WNT SIGNAL-TRANSDUCTION - MORE THAN ONE-WAY TO SKIN A (BETA-)CAT

Genetic and biochemical studies have suggested that signal transductio n by the Wnt pathway is very different to the familiar protein-kinase cascade of the Ras pathway. Among the more intriguing findings is that beta-catenin, a component of intercellular adhesive junctions, is a c entral component in the Wnt signalling pathway. Recent studies suggest ways in which beta-catenin might serve as a focal point for regulatio n of adhesion, gene expression and cell proliferation.