mTOR is a serine/threonine (Ser/Thr) protein kinase that responds to multiple signals, including growth factors, amino acids, energy status, stress, and oxygen, regulates cell survival, cell growth, the cell cycle, and cell metabolism, and maintains homeostasis [1]. Increased or decreased mTORC1 activity can alter HSC function and cause hematological disorders [2, 3]. Therefore, a comprehensive knowledge of mTOR is critical to understanding how HSCs function and maintain homeostasis in the hematopoietic system. In this review, we summarize recent advances in the understanding of the mTOR signaling pathway and its roles in hematopoiesis and leukemia. We also discuss pharmacological approaches to manipulate mTOR activity.
Keywords: HSC; Hematopoiesis; Leukemia; Leukemogenesis; Targeted therapy; mTOR.