Correlation between primary cilium and Wnt signaling pathway

Abstract

Primary cilium is a microtubule-based organelle,which develops from the mother centriole of the centrosome. It is an antenna-like structure that anchors at the cell membrance, protruding from the cell surface. Primary cilium acts as a sensory organelle that receives different kinds of signals from the environment and transmits signals to cells to elicit cellular responses. Recent studies have revealed that primary cilium play an important role in transmitting Wnt signaling, which is critical for embryonic development. Dysfunction of primary cilium deregulates Wnt signaling, causing a series of pathological changes in different organs of the embryo, resulting in ciliopathies. In this review, we summarize correlation among primary cilium,Wnt/β-catenin signaling,Wnt/PCP signaling and ciliopathies. Current therapies in ciliopathies are also discussed. Highlights on these researches will encourage the development of Wnt-associated diagnostic tools and therapy for ciliopathies.