The mammalian/mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 2 and its role in nervous system

The protein kinase known as the mammalian/mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) is present in numerous cells and plays a vital role in regulating cellular growth, metabolism, and survival through two complexes, mTORC1 and mTORC2. Even though the role of mTORC1 in development and metabolism has been extensively studied, the regulatory signals of mTORC2 and diversity of its function in the cell still need to be fully understood. The body of research shows that mTORC2 plays an important role in regulating cellular metabolism, and its dysregulation is associated to many diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders. Studies have reported altered mTORC2 signaling in several neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders. Furthermore, genetic studies have revealed the crucial role of mTORC2 in maintaining physiological structure and function in neurons, as well as oligodendrocytes myelination. This protein complex is responsible for various processes related to the structural organization and movement of neurons, interneuronal communication, and their adaptive ability. These processes include organizing the actin cytoskeleton, control of ion channels' function and neurotransmitter receptors, and regulating signal transduction. This review aims to provide an overview of the current understanding of mTORC2, including its components and known functions, in regulating various cellular processes, with special accent on its role in the nervous system.