Activation of the PI3K–AKT–mTOR signaling pathway promotes DEHP-induced Hep3B cell proliferation

•DEHP increased ROS-induced DNA damage in Hep3B cells.•DEHP increased mitochondrial membrane potential in Hep3B cells.•DEHP increased DNA replication rate and accelerated the cell cycle in Hep3B cells.•LY294002 could attenuate DEHP-induced oxidative stress in Hep3B cells.•PI3K–AKT–mTOR pathway involved in DEHP-induced Hep3B cell abnormal proliferation.