The Akt pathway in oncology therapy and beyond (Review)

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Cell Signaling
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Protein kinase B (Akt) is a key regulator of cell survival, metabolism, apoptosis, and angiogenesis.
• Dysregulation of Akt pathways is linked to major diseases including cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular, and neurological disorders.
• Akt's central role makes its signaling pathway a significant therapeutic target.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the structure and functions of Akt.
• To present the development and progress of Akt inhibitors.
• To discuss the preclinical and clinical efficacy and safety of Akt inhibitors.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of Akt structure, function, and signaling pathways.
• Analysis of various strategies for Akt inhibitor discovery.
• Evaluation of preclinical and clinical data on Akt inhibitor therapeutic activity and safety.

Main Results:

• Akt inhibitors have been developed with high selectivity and low toxicity.
• Akt inhibitors demonstrate therapeutic potential beyond cancer, including in diabetes, heart disease, and neurodegeneration.
• Ongoing research focuses on optimizing Akt inhibitor efficacy and safety for diverse patient populations.

Conclusions:

• Akt inhibitors represent a promising therapeutic strategy for a range of diseases.
• Further development and clinical evaluation are essential to fully realize the potential of Akt-targeted therapies.
• Akt inhibitors offer a valuable approach to managing complex diseases by modulating key survival and metabolic pathways.