Scholpp Lab

Wnt signalling is one of the most important signalling networks in development and homeostasis. Wnt malfunction is implicated in various forms of disease, including cancer and degenerative diseases. Activation of this signalling networks relies on proper dissemination of Wnt proteins in a tissue. Albeit 30 years of Wnt research, we still do not understand how the distribution of signalling molecules is controlled. However, this knowledge is important because it will open up completely new strategies to control Wnt signalling in development, regeneration and diseases by altering its transport route. Using zebrafish embryos, we have shown that extracellular Wnt trafficking requires signalling filopodia known as cytonemes. We want to understand the molecular mechanism controlling cytoneme emergence to allow Wnt proteins transport through a vertebrate tissue over hundreds of micrometers and to establish an effective signalling gradient.