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TOR in the immune system
Koichi Araki1, Ali H Ellebedy, Rafi Ahmed
1Emory Vaccine Center and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, USA.
Abstract:
The target of rapamycin (TOR) is a crucial intracellular regulator of the immune system. Recent studies have suggested that immunosuppression by TOR inhibition may be mediated by modulating differentiation of both effector and regulatory CD4 T cell subsets. However, it was paradoxically shown that inhibiting TOR signaling has immunostimulatory effects on the generation of long-lived memory CD8 T cells. Beneficial effects of TOR inhibition have also been observed with dendritic cells and hematopoietic stem cells. This immune modulation may contribute to lifespan extension seen in mice with mTOR inhibition. Here, we review recent findings on TOR modulation of innate and adaptive immune responses, and discuss potential applications of regulating TOR to provide longer and healthier immunity.
Insights
Target of rapamycin (TOR) inhibition impacts immune cells, affecting T cell differentiation and potentially extending lifespan. This review explores TOR
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Aging Research
Background:
- The target of rapamycin (TOR) pathway is a central regulator of cellular processes, including immune cell function.
- TOR signaling influences the differentiation of various immune cell subsets, including CD4 T cells.
- Paradoxical effects of TOR inhibition on immune cells have been observed, impacting both immunosuppression and immunostimulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent findings on the modulation of innate and adaptive immune responses by the target of rapamycin (TOR) pathway.
- To discuss the potential applications of regulating TOR signaling for promoting longer and healthier immunity.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on TOR pathway modulation in immune responses.
- Analysis of the effects of TOR inhibition on T cell differentiation, dendritic cells, and hematopoietic stem cells.
- Examination of the link between TOR-mediated immune modulation and lifespan extension.
Main Results:
- TOR inhibition can suppress effector and regulatory CD4 T cell differentiation.
- Paradoxically, TOR inhibition promotes the generation of long-lived memory CD8 T cells.
- Beneficial effects of TOR inhibition are also noted in dendritic cells and hematopoietic stem cells, contributing to lifespan extension in mice.
Conclusions:
- TOR signaling plays a complex role in regulating both innate and adaptive immunity.
- Modulating TOR activity presents potential therapeutic strategies for enhancing immune health and longevity.
- Further research into TOR's impact on immune responses could lead to novel interventions for age-related diseases.
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