Fig. 5
From: Mechanoregulation and pathology of YAP/TAZ via Hippo and non-Hippo mechanisms
A hypothetical model for YAP/TAZ regulation by tension at AJs. a Low tension AJ with small actomyosin force. Under this condition, Merlin localizes to AJs through its binding with α-catenin. b High tension AJ with large actomyosin force. AJ tension causes dissociation of Merlin from AJs, which may be associated with a force-induced conformational change of α-catenin. Released Merlin enters the nucleus, binds nuclear YAP, and then exports it from the nucleus with the aid of NESs in Merlin