MTOR (MTOR)

What it is. Central kinase coordinating anabolism with nutrient and growth cues; forms mTORC1/2 complexes to regulate translation, autophagy, and metabolism.

Why it matters here. Tight control prevents cells from prioritizing growth over cooperative maintenance; unchecked mTOR activity can tilt tissues toward proliferative risk and suppress cleanup processes that restrain damaged cells.

Notes. Partners: RPTOR (mTORC1), RICTOR (mTORC2); Inputs: amino acids, insulin/IGF via AKT; Output: translation control and autophagy gating.