[mTORC1 and sirolimus: a link with fertility].

mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin), a protein kinase highly conserved, is the catalytic subunit of two complexes, mTORC1 and mTORC2. These complexes are regulated by amino acids availability, by insulin and growth factors signaling pathways. Thus, mTORC1 and mTORC2 complexes are essential sensors of the cellular nutrient and energy levels in living organisms. mTORC1 is sensitive to rapamycin (also known as sirolimus), a drug prescribed in case of organ transplantation (kidney) due to its immunosuppressive and anti-proliferative properties. However, some studies have shown that the rapamycin treatment can induce fertility disorders. Thus, this article reviews the mTOR involvement in the male and female reproductive axis.