There are four human genes that encode TEA domain transcription factors, TEAD1-4. The TEAD TFs bind to YAP (Yes-associated protein) and TAZ (transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif) proteins, which are downstream effectors of Hippo pathway signalling. The Hippo pathway is frequently activated in tumours, and this abberant activity drives proliferation and survival of cancer cells. Disruption of the interaction between TEADs and YAP/TAZ is a current approach for anti-tumour drug development [1].

1. Hagenbeek TJ, Zbieg JR, Hafner M, Mroue R, Lacap JA, Sodir NM, Noland CL, Afghani S, Kishore A, Bhat KP et al.. (2023) An allosteric pan-TEAD inhibitor blocks oncogenic YAP/TAZ signaling and overcomes KRAS G12C inhibitor resistance. Nat Cancer, 4 (6): 812-828. [PMID:37277530]