The HIPPO signaling pathway is important for cell proliferation. It is regulated by the protein kinases MST1/2 and LATS1/2, and the transcriptional activators YAP and TAZ. Accordingly, the following events may be observed within a cell:

A. Activation of TEADs by phosphorylated YAP/TAZ
B. Activation of YAP/TAZ on phosphorylation by MST/LATS
C. Activation of TEADs by dephosphorylated YAP/TAZ
D. Inactivation of MST / LATS by repressors

Which one of the following situations can support progression of cancer?

Correct option is C

Explanation-

The HIPPO pathway is a highly conserved signaling pathway that regulates:
                                                                                               1.   Cell proliferation
                                                                                               2.   Apoptosis (programmed cell death)
                                                                                               3.   Organ size
                                                                                               4.   Stem cell renewal
It acts as a tumor suppressor pathway — it prevents uncontrolled cell division and growth.

Option  a :  Activation of TEADs by phosphorylated YAP/TAZ.
Incorrect
Phosphorylated YAP/TAZ are inactive. They are sequestered in the cytoplasm or degraded. This cannot activate TEADs.
So, this option contradicts the mechanism.

Option b:  Activation of YAP/TAZ on phosphorylation by MST/LATS.
Incorrect
MST/LATS phosphorylation inactivates YAP/TAZ. So, YAP/TAZ are not activated by phosphorylation.

Option c:  Activation of TEADs by dephosphorylated YAP/TAZ
Correct
Dephosphorylated YAP/TAZ are the active form. They enter the nucleus, bind to TEAD transcription factors.
Activate proliferative genes → important for cancer progression.

Option d : Inactivation of MST/LATS by repressors
Correct
If MST/LATS are inactive, YAP/TAZ cannot be phosphorylated.
YAP/TAZ remain active → enter nucleus → activate TEADs.
So, this supports tumor development.