YAP1 signaling and cancer: molecular pathways reveal novel targeting opportunities

Jialin Wu1,2,3, Bonan Chen1,2,3, Fuda Xie1,2,3

  • 1Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Sir Y.K. Pao Cancer Center, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.

PubMed
Abstract

Insights

The Hippo pathway, specifically YAP1/TAZ activation, drives cancer progression and metastasis. Targeting this pathway shows therapeutic promise but requires careful strategies to manage its dual roles in tissue repair and stemness.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Oncology
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • The Hippo pathway is crucial for tissue homeostasis and organ size regulation.
  • YAP1/TAZ activation promotes oncogenesis, metastasis, and chemoresistance by enhancing tumor cell survival and immune evasion.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current understanding of YAP1/TAZ roles in tumor initiation and progression.
  • To evaluate therapeutic strategies targeting the YAP1/TAZ-TEAD complex.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review synthesizing current advances in YAP1/TAZ research.
  • Evaluation of emerging therapeutic approaches and challenges.

Main Results:

  • YAP1/TAZ sustain cancer stem cell properties, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironments.
  • Small-molecule disruptors of TEAD auto-palmitoylation are emerging therapeutic targets.

Conclusions:

  • Targeting YAP1/TAZ signaling offers therapeutic potential but requires selective interventions due to YAP1's roles in tissue repair.
  • Combination therapies and development of biomarkers are crucial for maximizing efficacy and minimizing toxicity.

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