The Hedgehog (Hh) family of secreted proteins is involved in a number of developmental processes, one of which is the development of cancer. Past data suggests that the Sonic hedgehog (Shh) receptor is composed of two transmembrane proteins, Patched and Smoothened. The Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway is vital to the development of many tissues during embryogenesis, however, it also has an important role after development. After development, Hh signaling regulates stem cells and their regenerative function. When the Hh pathway is awry, signaling may turn oncogenic in nature.
