Yap1 (yes-associated protein 1; called Yorkie or Yki in Drosophila) encodes an oncoprotein that functions antagonistically with Nf2 (neurofibromatosis 2) to regulate liver development. YAP1 is overexpressed in certain tumors and can transform immortalized mammary epithelial cells in vitro. Overexpression of the protein leads to massive hepatomegaly and rapid progression to hepatocellular carcinoma. Inactivation of Yap1 leads to loss of hepatocytes and biliary epithelial cells in the heterozygous state. Homozygous knockout of the mouse gene results in early embryonic lethality. 

The first two exons of the mouse Yap1 gene were flanked by loxP sites to create this Yapflox strain. Cre-mediated excision of the floxed region disrupts transcription of the gene and creates a knockout allele.

When crossed with Alb-Cre mice (see Stock No. <a href="https://www.jax.org/strain/003574">003574</a>), liver-specific knockouts of the gene can be achieved. Aged compound mutant mice have enlarged, pale livers due to macrovesicular steatosis and progressive fibrosis.

The first two exons of the Yap1 gene are flanked by loxP sites in these Yapflox mice. Cre-mediated excision of the floxed region disrupts transcription of the gene and creates a knockout allele.

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