| Modification Notes |
Chibby, also known as Cytosolic leucine-rich protein or PIGEA-14, is a 126 amino acid highly conserved protein that inhibits ∫-catenin-mediated transcriptional activation by competing with LEF-1 to bind ∫-catenin. Chibby may also play a role in the regulation of the intracellular location of Polycystin-2 and other intracellular proteins. Acting as a homodimer, Chibby is subcellularly localized to the nucleus and golgi apparatus within the trans-golgi network. Interaction with 14-3-3 results in the sequestration of Chibby to the cytoplasm and the formation of a stable complex with ∫-catenin, thereby facilitating nuclear export of ∫-catenin. Though widely expressed, Chibby is found at highest levels in skeletal muscle, heart, placenta and kidney. Down-regulation of Chibby is observed in thyroid and metastatic uterine tumors, suggesting that the gene encoding Chibby may function as a tumor suppressor. |