Liver X receptors and liver physiology

The liver x receptors LXR alpha (NR1H3) and LXR beta (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.

Automated summary

Liver X receptors are ligand-dependent transcription factors that regulate transcription by directly binding cholesterol derivatives, playing important roles in lipid homeostasis throughout the body. In the liver, LXR controls cholesterol and fatty acid metabolism, and modifying LXR activity can influence the pathology of liver diseases.