Figure 12. Schematic diagram depicting the roles of YAP/TAZ in sprouting angiogenesis and vascular barrier maturation.

In response to VEGF, YAP/TAZ binds to TEAD family transcriptional factors, and positively controls activity of Cdc42 and MLC2 for actomyosin contractility, which are essential for filopodia formation and cell migration in tip ECs. Simultaneously, YAP/TAZ upholds expression and activity of MYC signaling, which is a key driver of EC metabolism and growth, thereby promoting cell proliferation in stalk ECs and maturation in barrier ECs forming the BBB. Along with angiogenic sprouting, YAP/TAZ also promotes formation and maturation of vascular barrier by upregulating expressions of junctional molecules and ECM components.