Experimental assessment of computationally nominated small molecules targeting the YAP–TEAD interface in Hippo pathway-altered mesothelioma cell models - Report - MDSpire
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Evaluation of Computationally Identified Small Molecules Targeting the YAP–TEAD Interaction in Mesothelioma Cell Models with Altered Hippo Pathway Activity

  • By

  • Glen J. Weiss

  • Joseph C. Loftus

  • David W. Mallery

  • Nhan L. Tran

  • September 14, 2026

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Evaluation of Computationally Identified Small Molecules Targeting the YAP–TEAD Interaction

Overview

This study assessed the cellular activity of computationally nominated small molecules targeting the YAP–TEAD interaction in mesothelioma cell models. The findings revealed that none of the tested compounds demonstrated measurable antiproliferative activity.

Background

The Hippo–YAP/TAZ–TEAD signaling pathway plays a critical role in various malignancies, including malignant pleural mesothelioma, where its dysregulation is common. Targeting this pathway has emerged as a potential therapeutic strategy, yet the effectiveness of computationally identified compounds remains uncertain.

Data Highlights

No computationally nominated compounds showed measurable antiproliferative activity in tested mesothelioma cell lines.

Key Findings

  • K-975 exhibited dose-dependent antiproliferative effects in MSTO-211H and NCI-H2052 cell lines.
  • Cisplatin decreased viability across all tested cell lines.
  • NCI-H226 was less sensitive to K-975 compared to other lines.
  • None of the computationally nominated compounds demonstrated measurable antiproliferative activity.

Clinical Implications

This study provides transparency regarding negative results.

Conclusion

The findings indicate a limited concordance between computational predictions and actual cellular activity in targeting the YAP–TEAD interaction.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Yap et al., Journal of Gastroenterology, 2019 -- The Role of YAP and the Hippo Signaling Pathway in Cholangiocarcinoma
  2. The ASCO Post, April 2023 -- VT3989 May Be Safe, Effective in Patients With Advanced Mesothelioma and NF2-Mutant Solid Tumors
  3. Archives of Toxicology, 2026 -- TEAD inhibitor induced switch in energy metabolism drives human podocyte injury in vitro
  4. The ASCO Post, October 2025 -- VT3989 Demonstrates Antitumor Activity and Tolerability in Refractory Mesothelioma
  5. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 2025 -- Treatment of Pleural Mesothelioma: ASCO Guideline Update
  6. Treatment of Pleural Mesothelioma: ASCO Guideline Update | Journal of Clinical Oncology
  7. Circulating Biomarkers and Targeted Therapy in Pleural Mesothelioma - PMC
  8. Abstract LB105: Translational analyses from the randomized phase 3 DREAM3R trial: DuRvalumab with chEmotherapy as first line treAtment in advanced pleural Mesothelioma | Cancer Research | American Association for Cancer Research

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