Curcumin inhibits colorectal cancer development by blocking the YAP/TAZ signaling axis

Background: Curcumin is a plant polyphenol with antitumor properties and inhibits the development of colorectal cancer (CRC). However, as the molecular mechanism associated is still unclear, our study aimed to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms by which curcumin inhibits CRC. Methods: HT29 and SW480 cells were treated with curcumin or/and Doxycycline (DOX), and cell viability, colony forming ability, migration and invasion were confirmed by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), colony forming, Transwell assays. And Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP) and PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) signaling-related genes or proteins were analyzed using reverse transcription quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR), western blot, and immunofluorescence assays. Then nude mice xenograft tumor model was constructed, YAP and Ki67 expressions were tested by immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining. Results: In our study, we proved that curcumin significantly inhibited the CRC cell viability, cell migration, and cell invasion abilities. In addition, curcumin inhibited YAP and Transcriptional coactivator with TAZ or the YAP/TAZ signaling axis in CRC cells. Further, in the nude mice model, curcumin treatment significantly decreased the size and weight of xenotransplant tumors. Conclusion: Therefore, curcumin significantly inhibited CRC development and invasion by regulating the YAP/TAZ signaling axis.