mTOR signaling in immune cells and its implications for cancer immunotherapy

Abstract

The realization that cellular metabolism dictates immune cell development, differentiation and function affords metabolic intervention as a potential venue for cancer immunotherapy. mTOR signaling, as a metabolic master regulator, controls immune cell biology in a cell type-specific and context dependent manner. Furthermore, mTOR activity needs to be fine-tuned to maintain proper immune function. These properties may be exploited for therapeutic purpose, yet caution should be taken against radical changes of mTOR activity. Here, the intricate and complex mTOR regulation in different immune cells is reviewed, highlighting latest discoveries and opportunities for cancer immunotherapy.

Keywords: Cancer immunotherapy; Goldilocks mTOR; mTOR-mediated metabolism; mTORC1; mTORC2.