mTOR, nutrition and ageing

Alterations in the target of the rapamycin (TOR) nutrient-sensing pathway are thought to contribute to physiological aging. In normal conditions the activity of the pathway is promoted by mitogens, growth factors, and nutrients (in particular amino acids) thus regulating diverse fundamental functions such as cell growth, proliferation, development, memory, angiogenesis, autophagy, and immune responses. Through life hyperactivation of the mTOR complexes is associated with more rapid aging, whereas hypoactivation leads to reduced translation and increased longevity in several animal species.