Wnt/β-catenin pathway in tissue injury: Roles in pathology and therapeutic opportunities for regeneration

Abstract

TheWnt/β-catenin pathway is an evolutionarily conserved set of signals with critical roles in embryonic and neonatal development across species. Inmammals the pathway is quiescent inmany organs. It is reactivated in response to injury and is reported to play complex and contrasting roles in promoting regeneration and fibrosis.We review the current understanding of the role of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in injury of various mammalian organs anddiscuss the current advances and potential ofWnt inhibitory therapeutics towardpromoting tissue regeneration and reducing fibrosis.-Bastakoty, D., Young, P. P.Wnt/β-catenin pathway in tissue injury: roles in pathology and therapeutic opportunities for regeneration.