Abstract

The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) plays an important role in cell growth. Dysfunction of mTOR has been linked to many human diseases, such as cancers, obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and neurological disorders. Currently, the mTOR inhibitor rapamycin and its analogs have been vigorously evaluated and developed as anticancer drugs. Here, we will review the most recent patents and patent applications relating to mTOR pathway. Moreover, we will discuss the patents and patent applications on the treatment of mTOR-associated metabolic diseases and cancers.

Keywords: mTOR, mTORC1, mTORC2, rapamycin, Akt/PKB, S6K, 4EBP1, TSC1/TSC2, Rheb, cancer