| [ Summary ] |
Wnts are secreted glycoproteins and regulate embryonic morphogenesis. It has been recently shown that these molecules are involved in development and metabolism of bone and cartilage. In the developing cartilage, several Wnts including Wnt4, Wnt5a and Wnt5b are expressed and modulate chondrocyte function. Further a beta-catenin-dependent Wnt path way, a major Wnt signaling pathway stimulates hypertrophy of chondrocytes and thereby may regulate endochondral ossification. Recent findings suggest that Wnts might play some role in rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. |