Wave of the future: involvement of actin polymerization in the regulation of tissue growth and shape

Abstract

The WASP-family verprolin-homologous (Wave) complex enhances actin-related protein 2/3 (Arp2/3)-mediated actin polymerization. Recently, we have identified a novel Wave complex–actin–Wnt/β-catenin–Sox9 pathway that regulates epidermal morphogenesis and proliferation. These findings highlight a mechanism by which actin polymerization impacts crucial signaling events in vivo.