Hamartin, in combination with tuberin, acts as a tumor suppressor by inhibiting the mTOR pathway, which is crucial for cell growth and proliferation. The hamartin-tuberin complex functions to negatively regulate mTORC1 (mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1) activity, thus controlling cell size, proliferation, and survival. By inhibiting mTORC1, hamartin helps maintain cellular homeostasis and prevents uncontrolled cell growth.
