Combined functional genomic and proteomic approaches identify a PP2A complex as a negative regulator of Hippo signaling.

The Hippo (Hpo) pathway is a central determinant of tissue size in both Drosophila and higher organisms. The core of the pathway is a kinase cascade composed of an upstream kinase Hpo (MST1/2 in mammals) and a downstream kinase Warts (Wts, Lats1/2 in mammals), as well as several scaffold proteins, Sav, dRASSF, and Mats. Activation of the core kinase cassette results in phosphorylation and inactivation of the progrowth transcriptional coactivator Yki, leading to increased apoptosis and reduced tissue growth.

A genome-wide RNAi screen to dissect centriole duplication and centrosome maturation in Drosophila.

Centrosomes comprise a pair of centrioles surrounded by an amorphous pericentriolar material (PCM). Here, we have performed a microscopy-based genome-wide RNA interference (RNAi) screen in Drosophila cells to identify proteins required for centriole duplication and mitotic PCM recruitment. We analysed 92% of the Drosophila genome (13,059 genes) and identified 32 genes involved in centrosome function.

Dmp53 activates the Hippo pathway to promote cell death in response to DNA damage.

Developmental and environmental signals control a precise program of growth, proliferation, and cell death. This program ensures that animals reach, but do not exceed, their typical size . Understanding how cells sense the limits of tissue size and respond accordingly by exiting the cell cycle or undergoing apoptosis has important implications for both developmental and cancer biology.