Systematic review examines PI3K/Akt-mTOR pathway role in host defense and pathogen evasion

This systematic review article synthesizes existing research on the molecular composition, activation mechanisms, and regulatory functions of the PI3K/Akt-mTOR signaling pathway in the context of infectious diseases. The review examines the pathway's role in host immune cells—including macrophages, T cells, NK cells, dendritic cells, and B cells—and its manipulation by various pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi. No specific patient population, sample size, clinical setting, or intervention was reported, as this is a review of mechanistic and preclinical studies.

The main finding is that the dynamic balance of the PI3K/Akt-mTOR pathway is described as one of the key factors determining infection outcome. The review reports that the host enhances immune defense by activating this pathway, while pathogens achieve immune evasion by targeting key molecules within it. No quantitative effect sizes, absolute numbers, p-values, or confidence intervals were reported for these associations. Safety, tolerability, and adverse event data were not reported, as the review does not include clinical trial data.

Key limitations include the absence of original clinical data, patient population information, and quantitative measures of effect. The review summarizes associations and proposed mechanisms from existing research but makes no causal claims supported by clinical trials. The authors note that this work provides a theoretical framework for subsequent targeted therapeutic research. Its immediate practice relevance is limited to informing basic science understanding rather than guiding clinical decisions, as no efficacy or safety data for any therapeutic intervention are presented.