The influence of mTOR on T helper cell differentiation and dendritic cell function

The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) integrates signalling responses to growth factors and nutrients. The macrolide rapamycin inhibits mTOR function and has been used extensively to demonstrate a critical role for mTOR in immune responses. This mini-review summarizes recent evidence demonstrating an integral role for mTOR in the differentiation of T helper cell subsets and the development, maturation and antigen-presenting capacity of DCs in both mice and humans.