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mTOR signaling in skeletal development and disease

Jianquan Chen1,2, Fanxin Long3

  • 11Orthopedic Institute, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006 China.

Bone Research
|February 10, 2018
PubMed

Insights

The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway regulates bone development and homeostasis. Targeting mTOR may offer new treatments for skeletal diseases like osteoarthritis and osteoporosis.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular Biology
  • Skeletal Biology

Background:

  • The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a key kinase regulating cellular processes.
  • mTOR signaling, through mTORC1 and mTORC2 complexes, is vital for skeletal development and homeostasis.
  • mTORC1 acts as a common pathway for bone-anabolic factors like Igf1, Wnt, and Bmp.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of mTOR signaling in skeletal development, bone homeostasis, and articular cartilage maintenance.
  • To explore the potential of targeting mTOR pathways for treating skeletal diseases.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent mouse genetic studies.
  • Analysis of mTOR pathway involvement in skeletal biology.
  • Examination of mTORC1's role as a mediator of bone anabolic effects.

Main Results:

  • mTOR pathways are crucial for multiple aspects of skeletal development and homeostasis.
  • mTORC1 is an effector for Igf1, Wnt, and Bmp, influencing bone anabolism.
  • Dysregulation of mTORC1 is implicated in skeletal diseases such as osteoarthritis and osteoporosis.

Conclusions:

  • mTOR signaling is integral to skeletal health and articular cartilage maintenance.
  • Targeting mTOR signaling presents a promising therapeutic strategy for skeletal diseases.

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