Rapamycin (Sirolimus)

Category: compound

An mTOR inhibitor originally developed as an immunosuppressant, now studied as a longevity and anti-cancer agent through autophagy induction and metabolic reprogramming.

Mechanism Detail

Rapamycin binds FKBP12, forming a complex that inhibits mTORC1, blocking S6K1 and 4E-BP1 phosphorylation. This suppresses cap-dependent translation, promotes autophagy, reduces senescent cell accumulation, and shifts metabolism toward catabolic pathways. Chronic low-dose use may selectively spare mTORC2.

Clinical Status

FDA-approved as immunosuppressant. PEARL trial and others testing low-dose rapamycin for aging. Rapalogs (everolimus, temsirolimus) approved for certain cancers.

Relevant Diseases

Relevant Therapies

Related Terms