RXR - Centralny regulator wielu ścieżek sygnałowych w organizmie

Abstract

Nuclear receptors (NRs) are a superfamily of transcription factors that play an important role in regulating many biological processes. The retinoid X receptor (RXR) is unique among NRs because it can form both homodimers and heterodimers with other representatives of the family. RXR modulates the expression of different genes and that is why it could be a good target for many therapies. Dysregulation of RXR signaling leads to various diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases, obesity, diabetes and cancer. Many molecules have been described as potential ligands for RXR. However, only a few of them are currently approved for clinical use. Retinoids play important role in regulation of skin cells growth and differentiation as well as have immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects. Therefore they have found use in treatment of skin lesions and some types of cancers. This review summarizes general information about RXR, its structure, ligands and mechanism of action as well as its potential role in cancer therapy and metabolic syndrome.