Smoothened is a protein that plays a crucial role in the Hedgehog signaling pathway, which is important for cell growth and development. It acts as a receptor that transmits signals from Hedgehog ligands to other proteins within the cell, influencing various biological processes, including embryonic development and tissue regeneration. In addition to its developmental functions, Smoothened is also implicated in certain diseases, particularly cancer. Abnormal activation of the Hedgehog pathway, often due to mutations in the Smoothened gene, can lead to uncontrolled cell proliferation and tumor formation. This has made Smoothened a target for therapeutic interventions in cancer treatment.