Hippo Signaling Pathway
Organ size control pathway regulating cell proliferation and apoptosis.
Overview
The Hippo pathway controls organ size by regulating cell proliferation and apoptosis. When active, the kinase cascade (MST1/2 → LATS1/2) phosphorylates the transcriptional co-activators YAP and TAZ, causing their cytoplasmic retention and degradation. When the pathway is inactive, unphosphorylated YAP/TAZ enter the nucleus and interact with TEAD transcription factors to promote proliferative and anti-apoptotic gene expression.
Cellular Location
Cytoplasm → nucleus
Clinical Significance
Master regulator of organ size; YAP/TAZ hyperactivation drives multiple cancers; NF2 mutations cause neurofibromatosis type 2; emerging therapeutic target.
Key Molecules
Key Enzymes
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