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Targeting the PI3-kinase/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway
Burhan Hassan1, Argun Akcakanat, Ashley M Holder
1Department of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 6767 Bertner Avenue, Unit 0107, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
Surgical Oncology Clinics of North America
|September 10, 2013
Summary
The PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway regulates cell growth and metabolism. Aberrations in this pathway are implicated in cancer, and inhibitors are being developed for treatment.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
Background:
- The phosphoinositide 3-kinase/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (PI3K/Akt/mTOR) signaling pathway is a critical regulator of fundamental cellular processes.
- Dysregulation of this pathway is frequently observed in various human cancers, contributing to tumorigenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway.
- To explore the biochemical and genetic alterations of this pathway in cancer.
- To discuss current and emerging therapeutic inhibitors targeting this pathway.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of existing research on the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway.
- Analysis of genetic and biochemical data related to pathway aberrations in cancer.
- Review of preclinical and clinical data for PI3K/Akt/mTOR inhibitors.
Main Results:
- The PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway plays a central role in cell growth, protein synthesis, survival, and metabolism.
- Numerous genetic and biochemical aberrations in this pathway are associated with the development and progression of diverse cancer types.
- A range of inhibitors targeting components of this pathway are in various stages of development and clinical use.
Conclusions:
- The PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway is a key driver in many cancers due to its fundamental cellular roles.
- Understanding pathway aberrations is crucial for developing targeted cancer therapies.
- Targeted inhibition of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway represents a promising therapeutic strategy in oncology.
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