PTEN is a tumor suppressor and multi-functional growth regulator gene that encodes the protein phosphatase and\r\ntensin homolog. The phosphatase and tensin homolog and exerts its action by dephosphorylating PIP3 (phosphotidyl inositol\r\ntriphosphate), the lipid second messenger which activates the mTOR intracellular signaling pathway thereby regulating cell\r\ncycle and apoptosis. PTEN gene mutations are common in human cancer cell lines. In addition, PTEN gene has been found to be\r\nmutated in patients with autism and certain macrocephaly associated inherited disorders such as hamartomatous syndromes.\r\nThe role of PTEN gene and mTOR has been reported in a diverse spectrum of neurological disorders. The objective of the review\r\nis to focus on PTEN gene mutation, its impact on neurological disorders and the need for vital research in the area so as to\r\ndevelop novel targets for therapy.
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