The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a highly conserved serine/threonine kinase that plays a pivotal role in regulating cellular homeostasis. It integrates signals from nutrients, growth factors, and cellular stress to influence cellular processes such as protein synthesis, autophagy, and metabolism. Research has demonstrated that hyperactivation of mTOR contributes to aging by promoting chronic inflammation, reducing autophagy, and impairing cellular repair mechanisms.
Rapamycin, an allosteric inhibitor of mTOR, and its analogs (rapalogs) such as everolimus and temsirolimus, have shown promise in extending lifespan in various model organisms. More recently, inhibitors that selectively target mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) or mTORC2 have been developed. These findings uncover the importance of mTOR as a target for anti-aging interventions.
Fig. 1 Interactions between mTOR and other longevity pathways. (Johnson SC, et al., 2013)
With decades of experience, CD BioSciences helps clients develop anti-aging drugs targeting the mTOR signaling pathway based on our understanding of the role of mTOR in aging. Our dedicated team is committed to helping clients advance anti-aging research by providing innovative solutions that meet the specific needs of our clients.
How Do We Identify mTOR as a Regulator of Lifespan and Aging?
At CD BioSciences, we employ a multidisciplinary approach to help clients identify and validate the mTOR network as the regulator of lifespan and aging.
Omics services
We offer comprehensive analyses of the mTOR signaling network in aging cells and tissues using omics technologies. Our services include transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic profiling to uncover the molecular changes associated with mTOR dysregulation in aging.
Genetic and pharmacological services
We selectively modulate mTOR activity in cellular and animal models utilizing genetic manipulation and pharmacological inhibitors. Our services enable clients to assess the impact of mTOR signaling on lifespan and healthspan, providing insights into the potential of mTOR as a therapeutic target.
How Do We Develop Anti-Aging Drugs Targeting mTOR?
CD BioSciences offers a suite of services designed to help clients discover and develop anti-aging drugs that target the mTOR pathway. We specialize in helping clients discover small molecule inhibitors that selectively inhibit mTORC1 or mTORC2. Leveraging natural compounds known to influence mTOR activity, we help clients develop novel formulations using modern science. We also extend our services to the development of biologics, such as monoclonal antibodies, that can target specific components of the mTOR signaling pathway.
Analysis of the Role of Anti-Aging Drugs Targeting mTOR in Regulating SASPs
Recent findings highlight the crucial role of mTORC1 in promoting the senescence-associated secretory phenotypes (SASPs). We employ techniques such as ELISA, qPCR, and proteomics to measure SASP components (e.g., IL-6, IL-8, MMPs) both before and after treatment with mTOR inhibitors in cellular senescence models. Additionally, we use aging animal models to evaluate the systemic effects of mTOR inhibitors on SASP regulation, monitoring inflammation biomarkers, tissue function, and lifespan.
CD BioSciences is dedicated to helping clients discover anti-aging drugs that target the mTOR pathway. By integrating our comprehensive understanding of the role of mTOR in aging with advanced drug discovery platforms, we become a reliable partner in the development of effective anti-aging therapeutics. If you are interested in our services, please feel free to contact us or make an online inquiry.
References
- Weichhart T. mTOR as Regulator of Lifespan, Aging, and Cellular Senescence: A Mini-Review. Gerontology, 2018, 64 (2): 127-134.
- Johnson SC, et al. mTOR is a key modulator of ageing and age-related disease. Nature, 2013, 493 (7432): 338-45.
All of our services and products are intended for preclinical research use only and cannot be used to diagnose, treat or manage patients.
