[Roles of mTOR signalings in hematopoiesis and leukemogenesis]

Mechanistic/mammalian target protein of rapamycin (mTOR) is an evolutionarily conserved kinase that plays a critical role in sensing and responding to growth factors, cytokines and nutrients, including amino acids and glucose. Although mTOR was originally discovered as a target protein of rapamycin, the inhibitory effects of rapamycin on mTORC1 substrates are complex. Recent studies using genetic approaches have clearly demonstrated the physiological roles of mTOR complexes in regulating the maintenance of hematopoietic and leukemia stem cells. Advances in understanding of how mTOR signaling is involved in mechanisms of normal hematopoiesis and leukemogenesis may lead to novel therapeutic approaches that can successfully eradicate leukemia.