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Updated: Jul 19, 2025

All-optical Mechanobiology Interrogation of Yes-associated Protein in Human Cancer and Normal Cells using a Multi-functional System
Published on: December 20, 2021
YAP/TAZ: Molecular pathway and disease therapy
Yuzi Wei1, Victoria Lee Zhi Hui1, Yilin Chen1,2
1State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology Sichuan University Chengdu Sichuan China.
The Yes-associated protein (YAP) and its transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) are key regulators in cellular processes and disease. Understanding YAP/TAZ signaling offers potential therapeutic targets for metabolic diseases and cancer.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Signaling
- Disease Pathogenesis
Background:
- The Yes-associated protein (YAP) and its transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) are homologous transcriptional coactivators central to Hippo, Wnt, GPCR, estrogen, mechanical, and metabolism signaling pathways.
- YAP/TAZ regulates gene expression, enzyme activity, cell proliferation, inflammation, and fibroblast transdifferentiation, impacting cellular functions and homeostasis.
- Dysregulation of YAP/TAZ is implicated in metabolism-related diseases, atherosclerosis, fibrosis, cancer progression, and organ regeneration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the signaling pathways regulating YAP/TAZ.
- To explore YAP/TAZ-induced disease mechanisms and potential therapeutic interventions.
- To review current clinical studies targeting YAP/TAZ and identify future research directions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on YAP/TAZ signaling pathways.
- Analysis of YAP/TAZ's role in disease pathogenesis.
- Summary of clinical studies and therapeutic strategies targeting YAP/TAZ.
Main Results:
- YAP/TAZ integrates multiple signaling inputs to control cellular functions and disease states.
- Epigenetic regulation and posttranslational modifications are key mechanisms controlling YAP/TAZ activity.
- YAP/TAZ plays a critical role in the balance between cancer progression and organ regeneration.
Conclusions:
- YAP/TAZ signaling is a crucial target for understanding and treating various diseases.
- Further research into YAP/TAZ mechanisms and clinical applications is warranted.
- Identifying novel therapeutic targets within YAP/TAZ pathways can offer innovative solutions for challenging diseases.
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