AXIN1 Protein

AXIN 1 encodes a cytoplasmic protein which contains a regulation of G-protein signaling (RGS) domain and a dishevelled and axin (DIX) domain that interacts with adenomatosis polyposis coli, catenin beta-1, glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta, protein phosphate 2, and itself. AXIN1 has both positive and negative regulatory roles in Wnt-beta-catenin signaling. AXIN1 is a core component of a 'destruction complex' that promotes phosphorylation and polyubiquitination of cytoplasmic beta-catenin, resulting in beta-catenin proteasomal degradation in the absence of Wnt signaling. Nuclear accumulation of AXIN1 can positively influence beta-catenin-mediated transcription during Wnt signalling and can induce apoptosis (1). AXIN1 may be an effective therapeutic molecule for suppressing growth of hepatocellular and colorectal cancers (2).