[When translation arises from its TORpor]

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Cellular Biology
• Medical Science

Background:

• Gene regulation via transcriptional and post-translational mechanisms is crucial for cellular homeostasis.
• Deregulation of gene expression is a known factor in diseases like cancer, obesity, and diabetes.
• The PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway's role in translation initiation has been increasingly recognized in disease development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of gene regulation, particularly translation initiation via the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway, in cellular homeostasis and disease.
• To highlight the therapeutic potential of rapamycin, an mTOR inhibitor, in various pathologies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on gene regulation mechanisms.
• Analysis of studies investigating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway.
• Examination of research on rapamycin's effects in cancer, obesity, and diabetes.

Main Results:

• Transcriptional deregulation is implicated in major diseases.
• The PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway significantly controls translation initiation.
• Rapamycin exhibits anti-proliferative effects in cancer and potential benefits in obesity and diabetes.

Conclusions:

• Rapamycin and its analogs represent a promising therapeutic avenue.
• Targeting the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway offers potential for novel treatment strategies.
• Further development of rapamycin-based therapies is warranted for diverse diseases.