hedgehog signaling pathway
(HEJ-hog SIG-nuh-ling PATH-way)
Describes a group of proteins that work together in a cell to send signals from the cell membrane to the nucleus. The hedgehog signaling pathway is involved in cell growth and differentiation that occurs during the formation of tissues and organs in an embryo. It also plays an important role in the maintenance of stem cells (cells from which other types of cells develop) and in the repair and regeneration of adult tissues. Abnormalities in proteins that are part of the hedgehog signaling pathway may lead to birth defects or diseases such as cancer. Drugs that target this pathway are being used to treat some types of cancer. These drugs may help keep cancer cells from growing.