Human Frizzled Homolog 5 (FZD5) Protein

Background

FZD5 is a member of the Frizzled family of G protein-coupled receptors that primarily mediates canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling and non-canonical Wnt pathways. It is widely expressed in tissues such as the gut, pancreas, brain, and placenta, playing critical roles in embryonic development, cell proliferation, and differentiation. FZD5 is essential for intestinal development and homeostasis, where it regulates Wnt-dependent stem cell maintenance and epithelial regeneration. In the central nervous system, FZD5 contributes to neural development and synaptic function. Its dysregulation is implicated in developmental disorders and diseases such as cancer. FZD5 overexpression in cancers like pancreatic and colorectal tumors enhances cell proliferation, survival, and resistance to therapies through Wnt/β-catenin activation. Additionally, FZD5 regulates angiogenesis by interacting with Wnt ligands, promoting vascular endothelial cell proliferation and survival. In placental biology, FZD5 is critical for trophoblast differentiation and vascular remodeling. Targeting FZD5 has emerged as a potential therapeutic strategy for cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, and other Wnt-driven pathologies due to its pivotal role in tissue homeostasis and disease progression.