Tag: Mtorc1

Over 97% of dietary protein is absorbed as amino acids in the intestine, highlighting the critical need for tight metabolic control. The regulation of amino acids is a complex, multi-layered process that ensures cellular homeostasis, coordinates protein synthesis and degradation, and allows the body to adapt to fluctuating nutritional conditions.

Studies show that blocking mTOR with the drug rapamycin can prevent the contraction-induced increase in skeletal muscle protein synthesis in humans. This strongly suggests that the mechanistic Target of Rapamycin, or mTOR, is a crucial component needed for muscle growth, but is it the entire story?

Nutrient deprivation, particularly the absence of amino acids, is a potent trigger for initiating the cellular self-cleaning process known as autophagy. Conversely, the introduction of amino acids can swiftly suppress this vital function, raising critical questions for those interested in cellular health and nutrition.