MTORC1 Activity Oscillates Throughout the Cell Cycle, Promoting Mitotic Entry and Differentially Influencing Autophagy Induction

Mechanistic Target of Rapamycin Complex 1 (mTORC1) is a master metabolic regulator that is active in nearly all proliferating eukaryotic cells; however, it is unclear whether mTORC1 activity changes throughout the cell cycle. We find that mTORC1 activity oscillates from lowest in mitosis/G1 to highest in S/G2. The interphase oscillation is mediated through the TSC complex but is independent of major known regulatory inputs, including Akt and Mek/Erk signaling. By contrast, suppression of mTORC1 activity in mitosis does not require the TSC complex. mTORC1 has long been known to promote progression through G1. We find that mTORC1 also promotes progression through S and G2 and is important for satisfying the Chk1/Wee1-dependent G2/M checkpoint to allow entry into mitosis. We also find that low mTORC1 activity in G1 sensitizes cells to autophagy induction in response to partial mTORC1 inhibition or reduced nutrient levels. Together, these findings demonstrate that mTORC1 is differentially regulated throughout the cell cycle, with important phase-specific consequences for proliferating cells.