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mTOR Signaling Pathway in Cancer Targets Photodynamic Therapy In Vitro

Sandra M Ayuk1, Heidi Abrahamse2

  • 1Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, P.O. Box 17011 Doornfontein, South Africa. matabs63@yahoo.com.

Cells
|May 12, 2019
PubMed

Insights

The Mechanistic Target of Rapamycin (mTOR) pathway is crucial in cellular processes and cancer. Inhibiting mTOR may enhance cancer treatment efficacy, particularly when combined with therapies like photodynamic therapy (PDT).

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular Biology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • The Mechanistic or Mammalian Target of Rapamycin (mTOR) is a key signaling pathway in eukaryotic cells.
  • mTOR dysregulation is implicated in cancer, diabetes, and aging, often with poor prognosis.
  • Targeting mTOR presents a potential strategy to improve cancer treatment outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review recent advances in understanding mTOR's role and regulation in cancer therapy.
  • To discuss mTOR's contribution to cancer development.
  • To explore future perspectives on targeting mTOR therapeutically in vitro.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent research on mTOR in cancer therapy.
  • Analysis of mTOR's involvement in cancer pathogenesis.
  • Discussion of therapeutic strategies targeting mTOR.

Main Results:

  • mTOR pathway is central to cellular functions and cancer progression.
  • Inhibition of mTOR signaling can potentially improve the therapeutic index in cancer treatment.
  • Photodynamic therapy (PDT) selectively targets neoplastic cells.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding mTOR regulation is vital for advancing cancer therapy.
  • Targeting mTOR, potentially in combination with PDT, offers promising therapeutic avenues for cancer.
  • Further in vitro research is needed to fully elucidate mTOR's therapeutic potential in oncology.
Keywords:
cancersinhibitorsmTORphotodynamic therapy

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