Akt-mTOR interplaying and carcinogenesis

The downstream effector of PI3K, Akt, is often highly-activated in human cancers. mTOR, as the downstream effector of Akt, plays pivotal role in carcinogenesis. In PI3K-Akt-mTOR signaling, Akt is negatively regulated by two tumor suppressors: PTEN, located at upstream of Akt and TSC1/TSC2 complex, lies in downstream of Akt. Latest researches indicated that Akt was regulated by a negative feedback mechanism directed by the balance of two mTOR complexes when TSC1/TSC2 was absent. The investigation of PTEN and TSC2 in carcinogenesis by mouse genetic strategies emphasizes the interplaying of Akt and mTOR in cancer research and treatment.