Cellular uptake pathways and intracellular signaling pathways

Cellular uptake pathways and intracellular signaling pathways represent a broad category of biological processes rather than a single molecular target. Uptake pathways, such as clathrin-mediated endocytosis and macropinocytosis, are responsible for the internalization of extracellular materials, nutrients, and membrane-bound receptors (Conner & Schmid, 2003). Intracellular signaling pathways, including the MAPK/ERK and PI3K/Akt/mTOR cascades, translate these external stimuli into specific cellular responses like growth, differentiation, and survival (Sever & Brugge, 2015). These processes are fundamental to maintaining cellular homeostasis, and their dysregulation is a hallmark of numerous pathologies, including oncogenesis and metabolic disorders (Hanahan & Weinberg, 2011). Pathogens also frequently hijack these uptake pathways to gain entry into host cells during infection (Mercer et al., 2010). Because this term encompasses thousands of distinct proteins, enzymes, and receptors, it cannot be classified as a specific therapeutic target in drug discovery. Instead, it serves as a functional framework within which specific druggable targets, such as cell surface receptors or intracellular kinases, are identified and modulated. Therapeutic intervention usually focuses on specific nodes within these pathways to achieve selectivity and minimize systemic toxicity.

Other names

Cellular internalization and signal transduction pathwaysEndocytic and signaling cascadesIntracellular transport and signaling

Not applicable as this refers to a broad set of biological processes rather than a single molecular entity.