Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 16, 2026

Exploring the Pharmacological Action and Molecular Mechanism of Salidroside in Inhibiting MCF-7 Cell Proliferation and Migration
Published on: June 9, 2023
The phosphatidyl inositol 3-kinase signaling network: implications for human breast cancer
R L Dillon1, D E White, W J Muller
1Molecular Oncology Group and Departments of Biochemistry and Medicine, McGill University, Royal Victoria Hospital, 687 Pine Avenue West, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
Abstract:
The phosphatidyl inositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway is activated downstream of a variety of extracellular signals and activation of this signaling pathway impacts a number of cellular processes including cell growth, proliferation and survival. The alteration of components of this pathway, through either activation of oncogenes or inactivation of tumor suppressors, disrupts a signaling equilibrium and can thus lead to cellular transformation. The frequent dysregulation of the PI3K/Akt pathway in human cancer has made components of this pathway attractive for therapeutic targeting; however, a more comprehensive understanding of the signaling intricacies is necessary to develop pharmacological agents to target not only specific molecules, but also specific functions. Here, we review a series of experiments examining the contribution of molecules of this signaling network including PI3K, phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10, integrin-linked kinase and Akt and address the significance to human breast cancer.
Insights
The phosphatidyl inositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway regulates cell growth and survival. Its dysregulation is common in cancer, making it a therapeutic target, but more research is needed for effective drug development.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Cellular Signaling
- Oncology
Background:
- The phosphatidyl inositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway is crucial for cellular processes like growth, proliferation, and survival.
- Dysregulation of this pathway, via oncogene activation or tumor suppressor inactivation, contributes to cellular transformation and cancer development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review experimental findings on key molecules within the PI3K/Akt signaling network.
- To explore the significance of these molecules in human breast cancer.
Main Methods:
- Review of experimental studies focusing on PI3K, PTEN, ILK, and Akt.
- Analysis of the role of these components in cancer signaling.
Main Results:
- The PI3K/Akt pathway is frequently altered in human cancers.
- Specific components like PI3K, PTEN, ILK, and Akt play significant roles in cancer progression.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the intricacies of the PI3K/Akt pathway is essential for developing targeted cancer therapies.
- Further research is needed to translate this knowledge into effective pharmacological agents for breast cancer treatment.
Related Concept Videos
PI3K/mTOR/AKT Signaling Pathway
mTOR Signaling and Cancer Progression
The mTOR pathway or the...
mTOR Signaling and Cancer Progression
The mTOR pathway or the...
Interactions Between Signaling Pathways
Convergence and divergence, and cross-talk between signaling pathways
Two distinct signaling pathways can converge on a single functional unit, which may either be a single protein or a complex of proteins. The response is either functionally distinct or synergistic between the two pathways but different from the response...
Phosphoinositides and PIPs
Different phosphoinositides are synthesized and recruited on the cytosolic face of the plasma membrane. The localization of specific phosphoinositides concentrated in separate membrane...
IP3/DAG Signaling Pathway

