WNT4

The WNT4 gene belongs to a family of WNT genes that play critical roles in development before birth. WNT genes provide instructions for making proteins that participate in chemical signaling pathways in the body. These pathways control the activity of certain genes and regulate the interactions between cells during embryonic development.

The WNT4 gene provides instructions for producing a protein that is important for the formation of the female reproductive system, the kidneys, and several hormone-producing glands. During the development of the female reproductive system, the WNT4 protein regulates the formation of the Müllerian duct, a structure present in the embryo that develops into the uterus, fallopian tubes, cervix, and the upper part of the vagina. This protein also regulates the production of male sex hormones (androgens) and the development and maintenance of egg cells (oocytes).

WNT4 Müllerian aplasia and ovarian dysfunction - caused by mutations in the WNT4 gene

At least three mutations in the WNT4 gene have been found to cause WNT4 Müllerian aplasia and ovarian dysfunction. These mutations change single protein building blocks (amino acids) in the WNT4 protein. Researchers suspect that the altered protein cannot be secreted, which would leave it trapped within cells and unable to perform its usual functions. It remains unclear how mutations in the WNT4 gene lead to the signs and symptoms of WNT4 Müllerian aplasia and ovarian dysfunction.

other disorders - caused by mutations in the WNT4 gene

A mutation in the WNT4 gene has been found to cause a severe condition called SERKAL (SEx Reversal and abnormal development of Kidneys, Adrenals, and Lungs) syndrome. In this condition, male sex development may occur despite the chromosome pattern typical of females. SERKAL syndrome has been reported in only one family and likely is not compatible with life. The mutation that causes SERKAL syndrome replaces the protein building block (amino acid) alanine with the amino acid valine at position 114 in the WNT4 protein (written as Ala114Val or A114V). This mutation is present in both copies of the WNT4 gene in each cell and likely eliminates the function of the WNT4 protein. The absence of WNT4 protein results in the wide variety of developmental abnormalities seen in SERKAL syndrome.

A duplication of genetic material in a specific region of chromosome 1 can result in an extra copy of the WNT4 gene. Having an additional copy of this gene leads to the production of extra WNT4 protein. People with this duplication may develop some female features despite having the chromosome pattern typical of males. These individuals can have an underdeveloped uterus and non-functional testes.