Abstract: Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a serine/threonine protein kinase that integrates stimulation intracellular and extracellular environment to control many fundamental processes through two distinct protein complexes, i.e., mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) and mTORC2. Recent studies have found that mTOR pathways play important roles in skeletal development and homeostasis. In addition, mTORC1 mediates the bone anabolic effect through insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), Wnt, and bone morphogenetic protein (Bmp). Dysregulation of mTORC1 contributes to osteoarthritis and osteoporosis. This article reviewed the current understanding of mTOR signaling in skeletal development, bone homeostasis, and maintenance of articular cartilage, which provided a reference for the mechanism and treatment of skeletal diseases.

Key words: mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), skeletal development, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, bone homeostasis