PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway in cancer stem cells: from basic research to clinical application |
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| Authors: | Pu Xia Xiao-Yan Xu |
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| Institution: | 1.Department of Cell Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Liaoning Medical University, Jinzhou 121000, Liaoning, P.R. China;2.Department of Pathophysiology, College of Basic Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, Liaoning, P.R. China |
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| Abstract: | Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a subpopulation of tumor cells that possess unique self-renewal activity and mediate tumor initiation and propagation. The PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway can be considered as a master regulator for cancer. More and more recent studies have shown the links between PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway and CSC biology. Herein, we provide a comprehensive review on the role of signaling components upstream and downstream of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling in CSC. In addition, we also summarize various classes of small molecule inhibitors of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway and their clinical potential in CSC. Overall, the current available data suggest that the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway could be a promising target for development of CSC-target drugs. |
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| Keywords: | Cancer stem cells PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway self-renew tumor initiation rapamycin |
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