Specifically found in animal cells, catenin is a family of proteins that are specifically found within the complexes of cadherin cell adhesion molecules.  The β-catenin is specifically used for binding of cytoplasmic domain of certain cadherin’s and is within the CTNNB1 gene. This protein has dual functions of gene transcription and cell-cell adhesion. Being one of the integral structural components of the cadherin-based adherens junctions, this helps in developmental and homeostasis processes.

Functions of β-catenin:

This protein has a great role in reduction of cholesterol content in the body. It also helps in regulation of degradation with help of phosphorylation. For further development in this regard, the Mouse β-catenin Elisa Kit is being used. Post this phosphorylation process, substrates need to be associated with specific enzymes through docking motifs. This GSK3 docking motif is specifically attached beside the β-catenin. In this way, substrate and scaffold protein can come together.

This catenin is useful in Wnt signalling and has roles in cell-cell adhesion. The β-catenin helps in formation of adherens junctions and binds transcription factors. It also helps in regulation of physiological regeneration process. As per recent reports, targeted over expression of CTGF within alveolar type II epithelial cells helps in activation of β-catenin in neonatal mice.