Targeting the PI3K–Akt–mTOR Pathway in Cancers: Impact on Tumor Cells and Their Microenvironments

Dear Colleagues, 

Increasing evidence has emerged suggesting that the PI3K–Akt–mTOR pathway is a critical driver of cancer progression. Tumors consist not only of cancer cells but also multiple residents or infiltrating normal host cells that comprise the tumor microenvironment (TME). The interactions of cancer cells with cells of the TME determine whether the primary tumor is regressing or progressing and metastasizing. Selective pharmacological inhibitors against molecular components of the PI3K–Akt–mTOR pathway have played critical roles in regulating TME cell fate and the differentiation of cancer cells. The clinical outcome of various hematologic and solid cancers has been improved by overcoming the resistance mechanisms generated through the blockade of one of these components. In addition, several preclinical studies using PI3K–Akt–mTOR inhibitors in combination have reported successful synergistic strategies.

This Special Issue aims to bridge the bibliographic history of the PI3K–Akt–mTOR pathway with new compelling therapeutic opportunities. We invite our colleagues to submit their original research articles and reviews considering new therapeutic approaches or novel targets of the mechanism of resistance to PI3K–Akt–mTOR to improve the effectiveness of existing cancer treatment in the clinic. We also encourage the submission of articles exploring the effects of new drugs that are under development in preclinical or translational evaluations for their impact on PI3K–Akt–mTOR and other crosstalk signaling pathways regulating cell proliferation, cell fate, metastasis, and other biological processes controlling tumor progression.

Dr. Salah-Eddine Lamhamedi-Cherradi
Dr. Evangelia A. Papakonstanti
Guest Editors

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