AKT1 and neoplasm: Furthermore, since PI3K/AKT pathway mediates the action of growth factors through growth factor receptors, receptor tyrosine kinases or G-protein coupled receptors, subsequently promoting tumor growth and development, we explored whether berberine has an effect on the expression of the components of this pathway, including phosphatase and tensin (PTEN) and PI3K, AKT and mTOR.