Characterization and expression of the human WNT4; lack of associated germline mutations in high--to moderate--risk breast and ovarian cancer

Cancer Lett. 2004 Sep 15;213(1):83-90. doi: 10.1016/j.canlet.2004.02.024.

Abstract

Wnt4 is needed for correct development of several tissues in the mouse, and WNT4 is found here to be expressed in a temporal manner in human embryonic tissues. In addition, WNT4 mRNA is seen in several adult tissues. The 1.5 kb transcript is dominant in adult tissues, whereas the 2.4 kb transcript is the major one in embryonic tissues. The involvement of WNT4 in normal mammary gland and ovary development suggests that WNT4 germline mutations may be associated with the human cancer predisposition. Their absence in cancer families, however, implies lack of involvement of WNT4 mutations in the etiology of hereditary susceptibility to breast and ovarian cancer. Finally, the chromosomal location of WNT4 is narrowed to 1p36.12.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Breast Neoplasms / etiology
  • Breast Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Chromosomes, Human, Pair 1
  • Female
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease*
  • Germ-Line Mutation*
  • Humans
  • In Situ Hybridization, Fluorescence
  • Ovarian Neoplasms / etiology
  • Ovarian Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Pedigree
  • Proto-Oncogene Proteins / analysis
  • Proto-Oncogene Proteins / biosynthesis*
  • Wnt Proteins
  • Wnt4 Protein

Substances

  • Proto-Oncogene Proteins
  • WNT4 protein, human
  • Wnt Proteins
  • Wnt4 Protein
  • Wnt4 protein, mouse