Neuronal Hippo signaling: From development to diseases

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cell Biology
• Developmental Biology

Background:

• The Hippo signaling pathway is a conserved regulator of cell survival, proliferation, and apoptosis.
• Yes-associated protein (YAP) is a key effector molecule negatively regulated by the Hippo pathway.
• This pathway plays critical roles in various developmental processes, including neurodevelopment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of the Hippo/YAP signaling pathway's contributions to neuronal development.
• To explore the pathway's role in neurodegenerative diseases and its therapeutic potential.
• To highlight recent findings on the pathway's role in neuronal repair and regenerative medicine.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on the Hippo/YAP signaling pathway in neuronal development and disease.
• Analysis of the pathway's involvement in neural stem cell (NSC) proliferation, migration, differentiation, and survival.
• Examination of evidence linking aberrant Hippo pathway activity to neurodegeneration and potential therapeutic strategies.

Main Results:

• The Hippo/YAP pathway is involved in multiple stages of neuronal development, including NSC proliferation, migration, differentiation, neuritogenesis, and synaptogenesis.
• Hyperactivation of the neuronal Hippo pathway is associated with neurodegenerative diseases.
• The pathway shows promise for neuronal repair and regenerative medicine.

Conclusions:

• The Hippo signaling pathway is significant throughout the lifespan of the neuronal system, from development to disease.
• Aberrant Hippo pathway activity presents therapeutic targets for neurodegenerative conditions.
• The pathway's regenerative potential opens new avenues in regenerative medicine.