The mTOR pathway and transgenic animals with deletion of the TSC gene in the regeneration of the nervous system and selected models of sciatic nerve damage

Abstract

Traumatic damage to the nervous system has been a common occurrence for years, reducing patients' quality of life. The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway plays a key role in nervous system physiology, including by controlling nerve cell survival and differentiation. Excessive activation of the mTOR pathway leads to an increase in cell cycle protein activity and apoptosis of nerve cells. Moreover, current findings suggest the involvement of the mTOR pathway in neuroplasticity. The use of transgenic animals with deletion of the TSC gene as well as various models of sciatic nerve damage, allows activation of the mTOR pathway. Currently, the results confirm that inactivation of point mutations in TSC-1 or TSC-2 genes, activates the canonical signaling pathway of the mTORC-1 complex, in turn, reactivation of the mTORC-1 pathway through the absence of the TSC-1 gene in mature neurons induces axonal regeneration. Dysfunction of the mTORC-1 pathway in Schwann cells (SC) inhibits myelination of nerve fibers. The aim of the present study is to understand the physiology and role of the mTOR pathway as well as to demonstrate the impact of TSC gene deletion in the regeneration of the nervous system. Current research on the activity of the mTOR pathway may provide new strategies to intensify peripheral nerve regeneration.