Targeting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR Signaling Pathway in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Current State and Future Trends

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common liver cancer and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Advanced HCC has a poor prognosis with limited treatment option. Chronic liver diseases and cirrhosis are the main risk factors for the development of HCC. Phosphoinositide 3-kinase PI3K/AKT/mTOR, intracellular mediators play a very important role in the development and progression of HCC. This signaling pathway is frequently activated in HCC patients. Therefore, signaling pathways have become the main source of targets for new treatments in HCC patients.

In our chapter, we will discuss the role of PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway in the pathology of HCC and provide an update on the preclinical and clinical approaches for the development of various molecular agents targeting this proliferation/survival pathway, which include various PI3K/Akt/mTOR inhibitors and other agents for the treatment of HCC.

Keywords: Hepatocellular carcinoma, Inhibitors, Signaling pathways, Sorafenib, Therapy.

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