Defining the role of mTOR in cancer

Abstract

The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) has emerged as a critical effector in cell-signaling pathways commonly deregulated in human cancers. This has led to the prediction that mTOR inhibitors may be useful in oncology, and derivatives of one such molecule, rapamycin (from which mTOR derives its name), are currently in clinical development. In this review, we discuss recent progress in understanding mTOR signaling, paying particular attention to its relevance in cancer. We further discuss the use of rapamycin in oncology and conclude with a discussion on the future of mTOR-targeted therapy.