positive regulation of TORC1 signaling

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

Any process that activates or increases the frequency, rate or extent of TORC1 signaling. [GO_REF:0000058, GOC:TermGenie, PMID:25366275]

Positive regulation of TORC1 signaling is a complex biological process that involves a series of molecular events that ultimately lead to the activation of the Target of Rapamycin Complex 1 (TORC1). TORC1 is a protein kinase complex that plays a crucial role in cell growth, proliferation, and metabolism.

The activation of TORC1 is tightly regulated by various environmental cues, including nutrient availability, energy status, and growth factors. When these cues signal the presence of favorable conditions, a cascade of signaling events is initiated, ultimately leading to the activation of TORC1.

One of the key regulators of TORC1 is the Rheb GTPase. Rheb is a small GTPase that cycles between an inactive GDP-bound state and an active GTP-bound state. The activation of Rheb is dependent on the presence of amino acids, particularly leucine. When leucine levels are high, it binds to the Rag GTPases, which in turn interact with Rheb and promote its GTP loading.

Another important regulator of TORC1 is the tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) complex. The TSC complex is a heterodimer composed of TSC1 and TSC2. TSC2 is a GTPase-activating protein (GAP) for Rheb, meaning it can convert Rheb from its active GTP-bound state to its inactive GDP-bound state. When nutrient availability is low, or when growth factors are absent, the TSC complex is active and inhibits TORC1 signaling by suppressing Rheb activation.

In addition to Rheb, other signaling pathways can also activate TORC1. For example, the PI3K/Akt pathway, which is activated by growth factors and other stimuli, can phosphorylate and inactivate TSC2, thereby relieving the inhibitory effect of the TSC complex on TORC1.

Once activated, TORC1 phosphorylates a variety of downstream target proteins, including S6 kinase (S6K) and 4E-binding protein 1 (4E-BP1). S6K promotes protein synthesis by activating ribosomes, while 4E-BP1 regulates the translation of specific mRNAs involved in cell growth and proliferation.

Overall, positive regulation of TORC1 signaling is a tightly controlled process that ensures the proper coordination of cell growth, proliferation, and metabolism in response to changing environmental cues. Aberrant TORC1 signaling has been implicated in a variety of diseases, including cancer, diabetes, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying TORC1 regulation is therefore crucial for the development of novel therapeutic strategies for these diseases.'
"

Proteins (15)

Compounds (496)