The Hippo signaling pathway is an evolutionarily conserved mechanism that plays a crucial role in regulating organ size and tissue regeneration. By controlling cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis, this pathway ensures the proper development and maintenance of various tissues in the body. One of the key players in this pathway is Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP) and its homolog WW domain-containing transcription regulator 1 (TAZ). Both YAP and TAZ serve as pivotal transcription factors whose activity is negatively regulated by the Hippo pathway.
The expression levels of YAP/TAZ have significant implications for various biological processes, particularly in the context of musculoskeletal health. They are involved in the differentiation of osteoblasts (the cells responsible for bone formation) and osteoclasts (the cells that break down bone), as well as in the maintenance of cartilage homeostasis, skeletal muscle development, and regeneration. Dysregulation of the Hippo pathway can lead to a host of musculoskeletal disorders, including bone tumors, osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, intervertebral disc degeneration, muscular dystrophy, and rhabdomyosarcoma.
Given the pathway’s critical role in these processes, targeting the Hippo pathway has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy for treating various musculoskeletal disorders. In a recent review, the authors explore the mechanisms through which the Hippo pathway maintains homeostasis in bone, cartilage, and skeletal muscle. They provide a comprehensive summary of the essential roles played by the core components of this pathway in the context of musculoskeletal diseases.
The review also discusses the efficacy and feasibility of Hippo pathway-related drugs for targeted therapy. These insights are particularly valuable as they open up new avenues for research and treatment options for patients suffering from musculoskeletal disorders. By identifying effective therapeutic targets and potential drug candidates within the Hippo signaling pathway, researchers aim to provide innovative solutions for these challenging conditions.
The authors of this enlightening review include Juanjuan Han, Jiale Zhang, Xiaoyi Zhang, Wenxin Luo, Lifei Liu, Yuqing Zhu, Qingfeng Liu, and Xin-An Zhang. Their collective expertise brings significant knowledge to the understanding of the Hippo pathway and its implications for musculoskeletal health, paving the way for future research and therapeutic advancements in this critical area of study.
