The WNT gene family consists of structurally related genes which encode secreted signaling proteins. These proteins have been implicated in oncogenesis and in several developmental processes, including regulation of cell fate and patterning during embryogenesis. This gene is a member of the WNT gene family, and may be implicated in development of early embryos as well as germ cell tumors. It encodes a protein which shows 81% amino acid identity to the mouse Wnt8A protein. [provided by RefSeq].
Function: Ligand for members of the frizzled family of seven transmembrane receptors. May play an important role in the development and differentiation of certain forebrain structures, notably the hippocampus.