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Updated: Feb 22, 2026

Monitoring Hippo Signaling Pathway Activity Using a Luciferase-based Large Tumor Suppressor LATS Biosensor
Published on: September 13, 2018
The Hippo signaling pathway: an emerging anti-cancer drug target
Yuquan Tao1,2, Feng Cai3,2, Liang Shan1
1Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200071, China.
Abstract:
The Hippo signaling is a highly conserved pathway that plays important roles in tumorigenesis, stem cell self-renewal and differentiation, organ size control, and many other biological processes. Functions of the Hippo signaling pathway are regulated by complicated intracellular and extracellular signaling networks. When activated, the Hippo pathway functions as a tumor suppressor. However, dysregulation of this pathway contributes to increased cell proliferation and decreased apoptosis and differentiation. Therefore, regulation of Hippo signaling by pharmacological modulators may be a promising anticancer strategy. Here, we summarize potential anti-cancer drugs that target components of the Hippo pathway or regulate interactions between the Hippo signaling pathway and other signaling pathways.
Insights
The Hippo signaling pathway is crucial for cell growth and acts as a tumor suppressor. Targeting this pathway with drugs offers a promising strategy for developing new anti-cancer therapies.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
Background:
- The Hippo signaling pathway is a conserved regulator of organ size, stem cell function, and tumorigenesis.
- Its proper activation suppresses tumor formation, while dysregulation leads to uncontrolled cell growth.
- Complex signaling networks govern Hippo pathway activity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review potential anti-cancer drugs targeting the Hippo signaling pathway.
- To explore modulators that affect Hippo pathway components or their interactions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on Hippo signaling and cancer.
- Analysis of pharmacological agents affecting the Hippo pathway.
- Summary of drugs targeting pathway components or cross-talk.
Main Results:
- The Hippo pathway's tumor-suppressive role is highlighted.
- Dysregulation contributes to cancer by promoting proliferation and inhibiting apoptosis.
- Pharmacological targeting presents a viable anticancer strategy.
Conclusions:
- Modulating the Hippo signaling pathway is a promising avenue for cancer therapy.
- Drugs targeting Hippo pathway components or interactions warrant further investigation.
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