WNT4 [SEP] chromosome
WNT4
WNT4 is a secreted protein that in humans is encoded by the "Wnt4" gene, found on chromosome 1. It promotes female sex development and represses male sex development. Loss of function can have serious consequences, such as female to male sex reversal.
Function.
The WNT gene family consists of structurally related genes that encode secreted signaling proteins. These proteins have been implicated in oncogenesis and in several developmental processes, including regulation of cell fate and embryogenesis.
Function Pregnancy.
WNT4 is involved in a
Wnt4", "Lhx9", "FGF9", "GATA4" and "SF1". In females the presence of a second X chromosome causes "Wnt4" and "R-spondin 1" to be upregulated, therefore promoting female ovary development. These factors induce the expression of FOXL2 which then suppresses "Sox9" (the factor responsible for testicular cell development). With the expression of "Wnt4" and "R-spondin 1" bi-potential ridge cells begin to differentiate into granulosa and thecal cells which