Activated hepatocytes are a major source of signals that drive cirrhosis, but the biochemical pathways that convert hepatocytes into such a state are unclear. We examine the role of the Hippo pathway transcriptional coactivators Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) in hepatocytes to facilitate cell–cell interactions that stimulate liver inflammation and fibrosis. Our current projects are described in the Research Page.
Mooring et al. (2020) Hepatocyte Stress Increases Expression of YAP and TAZ in Hepatocytes to Promote Parenchymal Inflammation and Fibrosis. Hepatology. 71(5): 1813-30. PMID: 31505040.