University of Massachusetts

Deborah M Leonard

Jack L Leonard

Karl J Simin

The invention relates to novel therapeutic approaches to cancer treatment that exploits tumor suppressor functions of DKK3b by site-specific delivery of DKK3b. Novel therapeutics and methods for treating tumors and cancers utilizing DKK3b tumor suppressor functions are disclosed.

Anti-tumor properties of Dickkopf 3b

The invention relates to the discovery of a vital new component of the Wnt pathway that regulates trafficking of &#x3b2;-catenin to the cell nucleus and novel therapeutic approaches to cancer treatment. Disclosed herein is a previously unknown, essential component of the Wnt/&#x3b2;-catenin signaling pathway that governs the quantity of &#x3b2;-catenin delivered to the cell nucleus. This intracellular inhibitor of &#x3b2;-catenin signaling (IBS) is transcribed from a second transcriptional start site adjacent to exon 3 of the Dkk3 gene and is required for early mouse development. IBS captures &#x3b2;-catenin destined for the nucleus in a complex with &#x3b2;-TrCP that is bound to the actin cytoskeleton and unavailable for nuclear translocation.

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Shrewsbury, MA, United States of America

Deborah M Leonard