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mTORC1
Nutrient- and growth factor-sensing protein kinase complex that, when active, drives protein synthesis, lipogenesis, and cell growth while suppressing autophagy.
Also: Mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1, mTOR complex 1
mTORC1 (mTOR + Raptor + mLST8 + PRAS40 + Deptor) integrates amino acid signals (especially leucine, arginine via Rag GTPases at the lysosome) with insulin/IGF-1 signaling (Akt-TSC-Rheb axis) and energy status (AMPK inhibition). Leucine-driven mTORC1 activation underlies the muscle protein synthetic response to protein feeding. Chronic mTORC1 activation accelerates aging and metabolic disease; rapamycin and dietary restriction extend healthspan in part by inhibiting mTORC1.
How one textbook covers it
Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease, 12th ed. — Ch 46: Mechanisms of Nutrient Sensing
mTORC1 (mTOR + Raptor + mLST8 + PRAS40 + Deptor) integrates amino acid signals (especially leucine, arginine via Rag GTPases at the lysosome) with insulin/IGF-1 signaling (Akt-TSC-Rheb axis) and energy status (AMPK inhibition). Leucine-driven mTORC1 activation underlies the muscle protein synthetic response to protein feeding. Chronic mTORC1 activation accelerates aging and metabolic disease; rapamycin and dietary restriction extend healthspan in part by inhibiting mTORC1.
Related terms
AMPK, Autophagy, Caloric restriction, Leucine, Sirtuins