PI3K/AKT/mTOR Targeting in Colorectal Cancer Radiotherapy: A Systematic Review.

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Molecular Biology
• Cancer Research

Background:

• Radioresistance significantly limits radiotherapy effectiveness in colorectal cancer (CRC) treatment.
• The PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway is implicated in CRC progression and the development of radioresistance.
• Targeting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway presents a potential strategy to enhance oncotherapy outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the effects of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway inhibitors on improving radiotherapy efficacy in colorectal cancer.
• To evaluate the potential of combination therapies involving PI3K/AKT/mTOR inhibitors and radiotherapy for CRC treatment.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search across major scientific databases (Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Medline).
• Inclusion of studies investigating PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway inhibitors in combination with radiotherapy for colorectal cancer.
• Analysis of preclinical and clinical trial data.

Main Results:

• Review of 32 articles (27 preclinical, 5 clinical trials) on PI3K/AKT/mTOR inhibitors and radiotherapy.
• Combination therapy demonstrated reduced tumor survival, induced apoptosis, and cell cycle arrest, enhancing radiosensitivity.
• Favorable treatment outcomes observed in colorectal cancer patients receiving combination therapy, despite limited studies.

Conclusions:

• The PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway is crucial for colorectal cancer cell survival.
• Inhibiting this pathway can potentiate radiotherapy efficacy.
• Findings support further research and clinical application of PI3K/AKT/mTOR inhibitors in CRC treatment.