Liver X receptors and liver physiology

Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis. 2021 Jun 1;1867(6):166121. doi: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2021.166121. Epub 2021 Mar 11.

Abstract

The liver x receptors LXRα (NR1H3) and LXRβ (NR1H2) are members of the nuclear hormone receptor superfamily of ligand dependent transcription factors that regulate transcription in response to the direct binding of cholesterol derivatives. Studies using genetic knockouts and synthetic ligands have defined the LXRs as important modulators of lipid homeostasis throughout the body. This review focuses on the control of cholesterol and fatty acid metabolism by LXRs in the liver and how modifying LXR activity can influence the pathology of liver diseases.

Keywords: Cholesterol; Fatty acids; LXR; Liver; NASH; Nuclear receptors.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cholesterol / metabolism*
  • Homeostasis*
  • Humans
  • Lipid Metabolism*
  • Liver Diseases / physiopathology*
  • Liver X Receptors / metabolism*

Substances

  • Liver X Receptors
  • Cholesterol