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Exiting the dark side: A vital role for Caspase-3 in Yap signaling

Yahav Yosefzon1,2,3, Yaron Fuchs1,2,3

  • 1Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Biology.

Molecular & Cellular Oncology
|September 26, 2018
PubMed

Insights

Caspase-3, traditionally linked to apoptosis, also regulates cell proliferation and organ size. It cleaves alpha-Catenin, releasing Yes-associated protein 1 (Yap1) for nuclear translocation and activation.

Area of Science:

  • Cell Biology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Developmental Biology

Background:

  • Caspase-3 is a key executioner enzyme in apoptosis.
  • Emerging evidence suggests roles beyond programmed cell death.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the non-apoptotic functions of Caspase-3.
  • To elucidate the role of Caspase-3 in regulating cell proliferation and organ size.

Main Methods:

  • Biochemical assays to study Caspase-3 activity.
  • Cellular and molecular biology techniques to analyze protein interactions and localization.
  • In vivo studies to assess organ size regulation.

Main Results:

  • Caspase-3 was found to cleave alpha-Catenin.
  • This cleavage releases Yes-associated protein 1 (Yap1) from cytoplasmic sequestration.
  • Activated Yap1 translocates to the nucleus, promoting cell proliferation and influencing organ size.

Conclusions:

  • Caspase-3 possesses a critical non-apoptotic function in regulating cell proliferation and organ size.
  • The apoptotic machinery, specifically Caspase-3, can be repurposed to control developmental processes.
  • Targeting Caspase-3 activity offers potential therapeutic strategies for conditions involving aberrant cell growth or organ development.
Keywords:
Caspase-3CateninYapapoptosisorgan size

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