PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway: a critical signal transduction pathway in the anti-cancer effects of resveratrol

Resveratrol (3,5,4′-trihydroxy-trans-stilbene) is a naturally occurring polyphenolic compound found in the skin of grapes, blueberries, raspberries, mulberries, and peanuts. In response to pathogens or injury, these plants synthesize this substance. It has demonstrated biological activity across diverse pathological conditions, particularly in cancer. Resveratrol exerts its effects by modulating multiple gene classes, including those encoding cytokines, caspases, matrix metalloproteinases, adhesion molecules, and growth factors. Moreover, several signaling pathways can be modulated by it, particularly the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. This review summarizes studies demonstrating resveratrol's modulatory effects on gene expression and on the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway in various human malignancies.