However, although both downregulation of sFRP1 and accumulation of cytoplasmic β-catenin are frequently observed in prostate cancer (Chesire et al, 2002; de la Taille et al, 2003; Lodygin et al, 2005), β-catenin/TCF activity is much lower than in cancers such as colon cancer, in which β-catenin/TCF signalling is essential for tumour cell growth (Lodygin et al, 2005; YK and RMK, unpublished observations). This evidence concerns the gene SFRP1 and malignant colon neoplasm.