Role of Yes-Associated Protein in Psoriasis and Skin Tumor Pathogenesis

Abstract

Psoriasis and skin tumors (such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma) are chronic diseases that endanger physical and mental health, and yet the causes are largely unknown and treatment options limited. The development of targeted drugs requires a better understanding of the exact pathogenesis of these diseases, and Yes-associated protein (YAP), a member of the Hippo signaling pathway, is believed to play an important role. Psoriasis and skin tumors are characterized by excessive cell proliferation, abnormal differentiation, vasodilation, and proliferation. Here, we review the literature related to YAP-associated disease mechanisms and discuss the latest research. YAP regulates cell apoptosis, proliferation, and differentiation; inhibits cell density and intercellular contacts and angiogenesis; and maintains the three-dimensional structure of the skin. These mechanisms may be associated with the occurrence and development of psoriasis and skin tumors. The results of recent studies have shown that YAP expression is increased in psoriasis and skin tumors. High expression of YAP in psoriasis and skin tumors may indicate its positive functions in skin inflammation and malignancies and may play an important role in disease pathogenesis. The study of new drugs targeting YAP can provide novel approaches for the treatment of skin diseases.

Tryptanthrin inhibits tumor angiogenesis via Notch/Dll4 signaling pathway in zebrafish

“…Indigo Naturalis, a traditional Chinese medicine with the active ingredient, tryptanthrin, has been used to treat psoriasis. In addition, the formation of pathological blood vessels in psoriasis has been found to promote and maintain inflammation, which is also an angiogenesis-inducing factor ( 19 ). As this mechanism is similar to that of tumor angiogenesis, we speculate that tryptanthrin also has an effect on anti-tumor angiogenesis.…”

Effect of Traditional Chinese Medicine on Psoriasis Vulgaris: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review

“…As a common medicine in dermatology, the main components of Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma are tanshinone and tanshinin. Currently, it is believed that tanshinin can reduce the expression of YAP in psoriasis lesions, while tanshinone can inhibit the activation of STAT3, which together can alleviate the symptoms of psoriasis [52‒54]. Dictamni Cortex is also one of the common medicines used in the treatment of skin diseases.…”