Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling network in skeletal myogenesis

Mammalian (or mechanistic) target of rapamycin (mTOR) regulates a wide range of cellular and developmental processes by coordinating signaling responses to mitogens, nutrients, and various stresses. Over the last decade, mTOR has emerged as a master regulator of skeletal myogenesis, controlling multiple stages of the myofiber formation process. In this minireview, we present an emerging view of the signaling network underlying mTOR regulation of myogenesis, which contrasts with the well established mechanisms in the regulation of cell and muscle growth. Current questions for future studies are also highlighted.