The Regulatory Mechanism and Therapeutic Targets of the HIPPO Pathway in <i>Helicobacter pylori</i>-Associated Gastric Cancer

The HIPPO signaling pathway critically regulates cell proliferation, apoptosis, and tissue homeostasis, playing a pivotal role in Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)-associated gastric cancer, a major contributor to the global gastric cancer burden. Dysregulation of HIPPO signaling, particularly through YAP/TAZ activation, drives tumorigenesis, invasion, and metastasis in H. pylori-infected gastric tissues. This review elucidates the molecular mechanisms by which H. pylori virulence factors, such as CagA, disrupt HIPPO pathway components, including MST1/2 and LATS1/2 kinases, and explores epigenetic and pathway crosstalk mechanisms. We also discuss promising therapeutic targets, including YAP/TAZ inhibitors and combination strategies with H. pylori eradication therapies. These insights aim to guide the development of targeted interventions for H. pylori-related gastric malignancies.