Transcriptional enhancer factor TEAD1–4 messenger RNA (TEAD1–4 mRNA)

TEAD1–4 mRNAs are the messenger RNA transcripts encoding the TEA Domain (TEAD) family of transcription factors, which serve as the primary nuclear effectors of the Hippo signaling pathway. In healthy cells, the Hippo pathway regulates organ size and tissue homeostasis by modulating the activity of co-activators YAP and TAZ, which bind to TEAD proteins to drive the expression of genes involved in cell proliferation and survival. In many cancers, particularly those with NF2 mutations or YAP/TAZ overactivation, the TEAD transcription complex becomes constitutively active, driving oncogenesis and drug resistance. Targeting the TEAD1–4 mRNAs using antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) or RNA interference (RNAi) aims to reduce the cellular pool of TEAD proteins, thereby dismantling the transcriptional machinery required for tumor growth. This approach is currently being explored in clinical settings, with a focus on mesothelioma and other Hippo-deficient solid tumors where TEAD activity is a critical driver.

Other names

TEA domain family member 1–4 mRNATEF-1, TEF-3, TEF-4, and TEF-5 mRNATEAD1/2/3/4 mRNAHippo pathway effector mRNA

Antisense oligonucleotide-mediated degradation of mRNA, RNA interference (siRNA), inhibition of translation