TSC2: filling the GAP in the mTOR signaling pathway.
The tumor-suppressor proteins TSC1 and TSC2 are associated with an autosomal dominant disorder known as tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). TSC1 and TSC2 function as a heterodimer to inhibit cell growth and proliferation. Another protein, mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin), is regarded as a central controller of cell growth in response to growth factors, cellular energy and nutrient levels. Recent breakthroughs in TSC research link the TSC1/2 heterodimer protein to the mTOR signaling network. It has recently been shown that TSC2 has GTPase-activating protein (GAP) activity towards the Ras family small GTPase Rheb (Ras homolog enriched in brain), and TSC1/2 antagonizes the mTOR signaling pathway via stimulation of GTP hydrolysis of Rheb. Thus, TSC1/2 and Rheb have pivotal roles in mediating growth factors, nutrient and energy sensing signals to mTOR-dependent targets. These discoveries lend new insight into TSC pathogenesis.[1]References
- TSC2: filling the GAP in the mTOR signaling pathway. Li, Y., Corradetti, M.N., Inoki, K., Guan, K.L. Trends Biochem. Sci. (2004) [Pubmed]
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