mTOR (Mechanistic Target of Rapamycin)
A protein kinase that acts as a central regulator of cell growth, proliferation, and survival. mTOR integrates signals about nutrient availability and cellular energy to decide whether to grow or conserve.
Biological Context
When nutrients are abundant, mTOR promotes growth and protein synthesis. When nutrients are scarce, mTOR is suppressed, activating autophagy and longevity pathways. Rapamycin, which inhibits mTOR, extends lifespan in multiple species. mTOR is the molecular switch between growth mode and maintenance mode.
Business Application
Organizations have mTOR-like switches: growth mode versus efficiency mode. Companies with mTOR stuck on 'growth' burn resources even when they should conserve. Understanding when to suppress growth-seeking for maintenance and efficiency is key to longevity.