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mTOR Signaling in Growth, Metabolism, and Disease
Robert A Saxton1, David M Sabatini1
1Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, 455 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Department of Biology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Broad Institute of Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 415 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA.
Abstract:
The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) coordinates eukaryotic cell growth and metabolism with environmental inputs, including nutrients and growth factors. Extensive research over the past two decades has established a central role for mTOR in regulating many fundamental cell processes, from protein synthesis to autophagy, and deregulated mTOR signaling is implicated in the progression of cancer and diabetes, as well as the aging process. Here, we review recent advances in our understanding of mTOR function, regulation, and importance in mammalian physiology. We also highlight how the mTOR signaling network contributes to human disease and discuss the current and future prospects for therapeutically targeting mTOR in the clinic.
Insights
The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway regulates cell growth and metabolism. Dysregulation of this pathway is linked to cancer, diabetes, and aging, with therapeutic targeting showing promise.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
- Physiology
Background:
- The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a key regulator of eukaryotic cell growth and metabolism.
- mTOR signaling integrates environmental cues like nutrients and growth factors.
- Deregulated mTOR signaling is implicated in diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and aging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advances in understanding mTOR.
- To highlight mTOR's role in mammalian physiology and disease.
- To discuss therapeutic strategies targeting mTOR.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent research on mTOR.
- Analysis of mTOR's function, regulation, and physiological importance.
- Examination of mTOR's contribution to human diseases.
Main Results:
- mTOR coordinates fundamental cellular processes including protein synthesis and autophagy.
- mTOR signaling is crucial for maintaining mammalian physiology.
- Aberrant mTOR signaling drives the progression of major human diseases.
Conclusions:
- Recent advances have deepened our understanding of mTOR's complex roles.
- Targeting mTOR therapeutically offers potential for treating various diseases.
- Future research will likely focus on refining mTOR-based clinical strategies.
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