mTOR in the Mechanisms of Atherosclerosis and Cardiovascular Disease

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Biology
• Molecular Signaling
• Cellular Regulation

Background:

• The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a key kinase regulating cellular processes.
• mTOR signaling influences endothelial and smooth muscle cell behavior, crucial in atherosclerosis.
• Atherosclerosis involves complex cellular mechanisms influenced by signaling pathways.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the multifaceted role of the mTOR signaling pathway in atherosclerosis progression.
• To explore mTOR's interactions with molecular targets relevant to cardiovascular diseases.
• To identify potential novel therapeutic strategies targeting mTOR in atherosclerosis.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on mTOR signaling in cardiovascular disease.
• Analysis of molecular mechanisms linking mTOR to endothelial and smooth muscle cell function.
• Examination of preclinical and clinical data on mTOR modulation in atherosclerosis.

Main Results:

• mTOR activity is dynamically involved in the proliferation and migration of cells in atherosclerotic plaques.
• Inhibition or activation of mTOR at specific stages can lead to atherosclerotic plaque stabilization.
• The mTOR pathway presents diverse molecular interactions relevant to cardiovascular pathology.

Conclusions:

• The mTOR signaling pathway plays a critical, context-dependent role in atherosclerosis.
• Targeting mTOR offers promising therapeutic potential for managing atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases.
• Further research into mTOR's specific molecular targets could yield novel treatment strategies.