Liver X receptor beta

Liver X receptor beta (LXRβ) is a member of the nuclear receptor family of transcription factors. It is also known as NR1H2 (nuclear receptor subfamily 1, group H, member 2). LXRβ plays a crucial role in the regulation of cholesterol, fatty acid, and glucose metabolism.

Function

LXRβ is expressed in almost all tissues, but it is most abundant in the liver, kidney, adrenal gland, and intestine. It forms heterodimers with retinoid X receptor (RXR) and these heterodimers regulate the expression of target genes, including those involved in lipid metabolism and inflammation.

LXRβ is activated by oxysterols, which are oxygenated derivatives of cholesterol. Upon activation, LXRβ regulates the expression of genes involved in cholesterol and fatty acid metabolism, promoting the efflux of cholesterol from cells, the transport of cholesterol to the liver for conversion to bile acids, and the excretion of cholesterol in the feces.

Clinical significance

Alterations in the function of LXRβ have been associated with several diseases, including atherosclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, and cancer. Therefore, LXRβ is considered a potential therapeutic target for these diseases.

See also

• Liver X receptor
• Nuclear receptor
• Cholesterol
• Fatty acid
• Glucose

References

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