YAP/TAZ as master regulators in cancer: modulation, function and therapeutic approaches

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Molecular Biology
• Cell Signaling

Background:

• The transcriptional regulators YAP and TAZ (YAP/TAZ) play crucial roles in cellular processes.
• Aberrant YAP/TAZ signaling is implicated in the development and progression of various cancers.
• Understanding YAP/TAZ biology is essential for developing targeted cancer therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an updated review of recent advancements in YAP/TAZ biology.
• To elucidate the regulation of YAP/TAZ by the Hippo signaling pathway and mechanotransduction.
• To highlight open questions and therapeutic strategies targeting YAP/TAZ in cancer.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent research on YAP/TAZ signaling in cancer.
• Analysis of the interplay between Hippo signaling, mechanotransduction, and YAP/TAZ.
• Overview of current and emerging therapeutic strategies and clinical trials targeting YAP/TAZ.

Main Results:

• YAP/TAZ signaling is a common vulnerability across multiple tumor types and their microenvironments.
• YAP/TAZ activation confers malignant attributes, contributing to tumor growth and metastasis.
• The Hippo pathway and mechanical cues are key regulators of YAP/TAZ activity.

Conclusions:

• YAP/TAZ signaling represents a significant vulnerability in cancer, offering a broad therapeutic window.
• Targeting YAP/TAZ is a promising strategy for novel cancer treatments.
• Further research is needed to address open questions and optimize YAP/TAZ-targeted therapies.