The WT1 gene provides instructions for making a protein that is necessary for the development of the kidneys and gonads (ovaries in females and testes in males) before birth. After birth, WT1 protein activity is limited to a structure known as the glomerulus, which filters blood through the kidneys. The WT1 protein plays a role in cell growth, the process by which cells mature to perform specific functions (differentiation), and the self-destruction of cells (apoptosis). To carry out these functions, the WT1 protein regulates the activity of other genes by attaching (binding) to specific regions of DNA. On the basis of this action, the WT1 protein is called a transcription factor.
Other Names
WIT-2; WT1_HUMAN; WT33
Related Genetics Topics
- 46,XX testicular disorder of sex development — MedlinePlus Genetics
- WAGR syndrome — MedlinePlus Genetics
- Denys-Drash syndrome — MedlinePlus Genetics
- Frasier syndrome — MedlinePlus Genetics
- Cytogenetically normal acute myeloid leukemia — MedlinePlus Genetics
- Prostate cancer — MedlinePlus Genetics
- Congenital nephrotic syndrome — MedlinePlus Genetics
- Wilms tumor — MedlinePlus Genetics
Identifiers
- NCBI Gene: 7490
- OMIM: 607102
Source: MedlinePlus Genetics, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
