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The Wnt Signalling Pathway: A Tailored Target in Cancer
Malvina Koni1, Veronica Pinnarò1, Maria Felice Brizzi1
1Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Corso Dogliotti 14, 10126 Turin, Italy.
Abstract:
Cancer is one of the greatest public health challenges. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 9.6 million cancer deaths have been reported in 2018. The most common cancers include lung, breast, colorectal, prostate, skin (non-melanoma) and stomach cancer. The unbalance of physiological signalling pathways due to the acquisition of mutations in tumour cells is considered the most common cancer driver. The Wingless-related integration site (Wnt)/β-catenin pathway is crucial for tissue development and homeostasis in all animal species and its dysregulation is one of the most relevant events linked to cancer development and dissemination. The canonical and the non-canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathways are known to control both physiological and pathological processes, including cancer. Herein, the impact of the Wnt/β-catenin cascade in driving cancers from different origin has been examined. Finally, based on the impact of Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) on tumour growth, invasion and chemoresistance, and their role as tumour diagnostic and prognostic tools, an overview of the current knowledge linking EVs to the Wnt/β-catenin pathway is also discussed.
Insights
The Wingless-related integration site (Wnt)/β-catenin pathway is a key driver in various cancers. This study examines its role in cancer development and discusses the link between Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) and this pathway.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Cancer remains a significant global health challenge, with millions of deaths annually.
- Dysregulation of cellular signaling pathways, particularly the Wingless-related integration site (Wnt)/β-catenin pathway, is a primary driver of cancer.
- The Wnt/β-catenin pathway is essential for normal tissue development and homeostasis but its aberrant activation is linked to cancer initiation and progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling cascade in driving cancers of diverse origins.
- To review the current understanding of how Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) influence tumor growth, invasion, and chemoresistance.
- To explore the connection between EVs and the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in the context of cancer.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of existing research on Wnt/β-catenin signaling in cancer.
- Analysis of studies investigating the role of Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) in tumor biology.
- Examination of research linking EVs to Wnt/β-catenin pathway modulation in cancer.
Main Results:
- The Wnt/β-catenin pathway, through its canonical and non-canonical forms, significantly contributes to the development and spread of various cancers.
- Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) play a multifaceted role in promoting tumor growth, facilitating invasion, and conferring chemoresistance.
- Emerging evidence suggests a critical interplay between EVs and the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, influencing cancer progression and potentially serving as diagnostic/prognostic markers.
Conclusions:
- The Wnt/β-catenin pathway is a critical therapeutic target across multiple cancer types.
- EVs are increasingly recognized for their involvement in cancer pathogenesis and their potential as biomarkers.
- Further research into the EV-Wnt/β-catenin axis is warranted for developing novel cancer diagnostics and therapeutics.
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