Mouse Frizzled 2 (FZD2) Protein

Background

FZD2 is a G protein-coupled receptor that binds Wnt ligands, mediating both canonical (β-catenin-dependent) and non-canonical (PCP and calcium) Wnt signaling pathways. It is expressed in various tissues, including the heart, lung, and skeletal system, where it regulates embryonic development, tissue remodeling, and cellular signaling. FZD2 plays a critical role in cell migration and polarity during embryogenesis, particularly in neural tube closure, heart development, and limb patterning. In cancer, FZD2 is upregulated in tumors such as gastric, liver, and lung cancers, where it enhances epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), cell invasion, and metastasis through Wnt/β-catenin-independent pathways. FZD2 has also been implicated in fibrosis, including pulmonary and hepatic fibrosis, where its activation drives myofibroblast differentiation and excessive extracellular matrix production. Dysregulation of FZD2 signaling contributes to developmental abnormalities and chronic diseases. Pharmacological targeting of FZD2 offers therapeutic potential in cancer and fibrotic diseases by inhibiting aberrant Wnt signaling and EMT processes. Its role in cellular polarity and migration underscores its importance in both normal development and disease progression.