The PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in cancer: Molecular mechanisms and possible therapeutic interventions

The human body consists of countless cells with the possibility of excessive and uncontrolled proliferation under certain dysregulated circumstances that could cause abnormal states such as cancer. Phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K) and its downstream target, Protein kinase B or AKT, play a critical role in cell survival, proliferation, differentiation, migration, and metabolism. Research studies have examined the aberrant expression of signaling molecules that regulate PI3K/AKT pathway with the purpose of target discovery. The present review aims to recapitulate the relationship between the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and factors contributing to initiation and development of various cancers. In addition, therapeutic interventions regulating this signaling pathway have been summarized.