Proliferation, survival and metabolism: the role of PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling in pluripotency and cell fate determination
Phosphatidylinositide 3 kinases (PI3Ks) and their downstream mediators AKT and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) constitute the core components of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling cascade, regulating cell proliferation, survival and metabolism. Although these functions are well defined in the context of tumorigenesis, recent studies in particular those using pluripotent stem cells have highlighted the importance of this pathway to development and cellular differentiation. Here, we review the recent in vitro and in vivo evidence for the role PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling plays in the control of pluripotency and differentiation, with a particular focus on the molecular mechanisms underlying these functions. Summary: This Review highlights the important role of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling pathway in stem cells and discusses its role in regulating important aspects of proliferation and differentiation.
Development