PI3K Signaling in Neurons: A Central Node for the Control of Multiple Functions

Abstract

Phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) signaling contributes to a variety of processes, mediating many aspects of cellular function, including nutrient uptake, anabolic reactions, cell growth, proliferation, and survival. Less is known regarding its critical role in neuronal physiology, neuronal metabolism, tissue homeostasis, and the control of gene expression in the central nervous system in healthy and diseased states. The aim of the present work is to review cumulative evidence regarding the participation of PI3K pathways in neuronal function, focusing on their role in neuronal metabolism and transcriptional regulation of genes involved in neuronal maintenance and plasticity or on the expression of pathological hallmarks associated with neurodegeneration.