Wnt Signaling in Skin Organogenesis

The document from 2008 reviews the role of Wnt signaling in skin organogenesis, with a focus on the development of skin appendages such as hairs and feathers. It explains that Wnt signaling is essential for cell proliferation, differentiation, and motility during skin morphogenesis, including the formation of the dorsal dermis and the cycling of skin appendages in adults. The paper discusses the necessity of β-catenin in hair formation, the role of Wnt proteins and inhibitors like DKK4 in skin appendage formation, and the involvement of canonical and non-canonical Wnt pathways in directing adult skin progenitor cells toward regeneration. It also covers the importance of Wnt signaling in wound healing, hair regeneration, and skin-related diseases, noting that disruptions in this pathway can lead to skin tumors. The document suggests that many aspects of Wnt signaling in skin development are still to be fully explored, indicating promising areas for future research.