PI3K/Akt pathway

The PI3K/Akt pathway is a crucial signaling system in cells that helps regulate various functions, including growth, survival, and metabolism. When a cell receives signals from its environment (like hormones), a protein called PI3K activates, leading to the activation of another protein called Akt. Akt then triggers responses that promote cell growth, division, and survival, while also helping to manage energy use. This pathway is important in many normal biological processes and can contribute to diseases, including cancer, when its regulation goes awry. Understanding this pathway is vital for developing targeted therapies.