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The dual functions of YAP-1 to promote and inhibit cell growth in human malignancy

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Abstract

The major functions of Hippo (Hpo) signaling pathway are to control cell growth, proliferation, and apoptosis. As its important downstream player, yes-associated protein (YAP)-1 was originally found to promote cell proliferation and transformation. Overexpression of YAP-1 has been linked to tumor progression and worse survival in certain malignancies. However, it has been recently recognized as a tumor suppressor gene as well since it also induces apoptosis. Decreased or absent expression of YAP-1 is highly correlated with tumor progression and worse survival in other tumors such as breast cancer. It is clear that YAP-1 plays a dual role as oncogene and tumor suppressor gene in human oncogenesis, depending on the specific tissue type involved. Here, we reviewed the recent research on both the oncogenic and tumor suppressor function of YAP-1 and its significance in human malignancy. The clinical implication of YAP-1 expression in cancer prognosis and the development of targeted therapy will also be discussed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Pathology, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University School of Medicine, 305 East Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210002, China

    Hai Wang & Xiao-jun Zhou

  2. The Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, 727 E. Tyler St., Tempe, AZ, 85287-5001, USA

    Yu-Chen Du

  3. Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Huanhuxi Road, Hexi District, Tianjin, 300060, China

    Hong Liu & Shou-Ching Tang

  4. Georgia Regents University Cancer Center, 1411 Laney Walker Blvd., Augusta, GA, 30912, USA

    Shou-Ching Tang

  5. Sichuan Cancer Hospital and Institute, 55 Renmin Nan Rd., Chengdu, Sichuan, 61004, China

    Yu-Chen Du

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  1. Hai Wang
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  3. Xiao-jun Zhou
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  4. Hong Liu
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Correspondence to Shou-Ching Tang.

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Hai Wang and Yu-Chen Du made equal contribution to the manuscript.

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Wang, H., Du, YC., Zhou, Xj. et al. The dual functions of YAP-1 to promote and inhibit cell growth in human malignancy. Cancer Metastasis Rev 33, 173–181 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10555-013-9463-3

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