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An overview of the mTOR pathway as a target in cancer therapy

Ryan D Gentzler1, Jessica K Altman, Leonidas C Platanias

  • 1Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center , 303 East Superior Street, Lurie 3-107, Chicago, IL 60611 , USA +1 312 5034267 ; +1 312 9081372 ; l-platanias@northwestern.edu.

Expert Opinion on Therapeutic Targets
|April 13, 2012
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Targeting the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway shows promise for cancer treatment. mTOR inhibitors are effective against certain tumors, with newer generations offering improved outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway regulates mRNA translation initiation.
  • mTOR inhibitors like rapamycin demonstrate significant antineoplastic activity.
  • First-generation mTOR inhibitors are approved for renal cell carcinoma treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • Review mTOR pathway components and functions.
  • Highlight common alterations in human malignancies.
  • Discuss therapeutic relevance of mTOR inhibitors in various cancers.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of mTOR pathway.
  • Analysis of mTOR pathway alterations in cancer.
  • Evaluation of therapeutic strategies using mTOR inhibitors.

Main Results:

  • mTOR pathway is frequently altered in human cancers.
  • Pharmacological inhibition of mTOR shows efficacy in preclinical and clinical studies.
  • Specific malignancies discussed include lymphomas, leukemias, sarcomas, renal cell carcinoma, and breast cancer.

Conclusions:

  • Targeting the mTOR pathway is a promising therapeutic strategy.
  • First-generation mTOR inhibitors have demonstrated clinical activity.
  • Second-generation catalytic mTOR inhibitors offer enhanced targeting and potential for improved outcomes.

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