The role
of DKK1 in cancer
![](https://www.leaptx.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/diagram-img-03@2x-556x556.jpg)
DKK1 is produced and secreted by cancer cells, functions on several tumor pathways and nearby immune cells.
![](https://www.leaptx.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/diagram-img-02@2x-556x556.jpg)
Enhances
MDSC cells
Inhibits B-catenin dependent Wnt signaling to enhance suppressive activity.
Prevents
NK cell activation
Helps tumor cells avoid NK cell mediated killing.
![](https://www.leaptx.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/diagram-img-04@2x-556x556.jpg)
Angiogenesis
Upregulates VEGFR2, increases formation of tumor blood vessels.
Cell proliferation
Signals through CKAP4 to activate PI3K / AKT signaling
DKK1 high tumor levels are associated with poor survival in many cancer indications
DKK1 high cancers DKK1 expression data (TCGA):
![](https://www.leaptx.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/diagram-dkk1-cancers@2x-768x644.png)
~2.5 years shorter OS in DKK1 high patients