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Abstract
The phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-Akt and the mammalian target of rapamycin
(mTOR) represent two vital intracellular signaling pathways, which are associated
with various aspects of cellular functions. These functions play vital roles in quiescence,
survival, and growth in normal physiological circumstances as well as in various pathological
disorders, including cancer. These two pathways are so intimately connected to each
other that in some instances these are considered as one unique pathway crucial for
cell cycle regulation. The purpose of this review is to emphasize the role of PI3K-Akt-mTOR
signaling pathway in different cancer conditions and the importance of natural products
targeting the PI3K-Akt-mTOR signaling pathway. This review also aims to draw the attention
of scientists and researchers to the assorted beneficial effects of the numerous classes
of natural products for the development of new and safe drugs for possible cancer
therapy. We also summarize and critically analyze various preclinical and clinical
studies on bioactive compounds and constituents, which are derived from natural products,
to target the PI3K-Akt-mTOR signaling pathway for cancer prevention and intervention.