TAZ induces growth factor-independent proliferation through activation of EGFR ligand amphiregulin.

The Hippo signaling pathway regulates cellular proliferation and survival, thus exerting profound effects on normal cell fate and tumorigenesis. We previously showed that the pivotal effector of this pathway, YAP, is amplified in tumors and promotes epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and malignant transformation. Here, we report that overexpression of TAZ, a paralog of YAP, in human mammary epithelial cells promotes EMT and, in particular, some invasive structures in 3D cultures.

Bortezomib mitigates adverse prognosis conferred by Bcl-2 overexpression in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma.

Overexpression of the Bcl-2 family of genes results in increased transcription of anti-apoptotic proteins. In vitro data suggest that this may enhance acquired chemoresistance and correlate with extramedullary invasion. This has led to pursuing the Bcl-2 family of proteins as therapeutic targets in several malignant disorders, including multiple myeloma (MM).

Dietary folate deficiency blocks prostate cancer progression in the TRAMP model.

Dietary folate is essential in all tissues to maintain several metabolite pools and cellular proliferation. Prostate cells, due to specific metabolic characteristics, have increased folate demand to support proliferation and prevent genetic and epigenetic damage. Although several studies have found that dietary folate interventions can affect colon cancer biology in rodent models, its impact on prostate is unknown.