Axin forms a complex with other proteins such as APC (adenomatous polyposis coli), GSK-3β (glycogen synthase kinase-3β), and CK1α (casein kinase 1α) to promote the phosphorylation and subsequent degradation of β-catenin. This process prevents the accumulation of β-catenin in the nucleus, where it would otherwise activate the transcription of genes involved in cell proliferation and survival. By maintaining low levels of β-catenin, Axin helps to inhibit uncontrolled cell growth and tumor formation.
