Liver X receptor alpha

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Liver X receptor alpha (LXRα), also known as NR1H3 (nuclear receptor subfamily 1, group H, member 3), is a nuclear receptor that in humans is encoded by the NR1H3 gene. It is one of the two forms of liver X receptor, the other being LXRβ.

Function[edit | edit source]

LXRα is a member of the nuclear receptor family of transcription factors. It is activated by certain lipids, particularly oxysterols, which are oxygenated derivatives of cholesterol. Upon activation, LXRα regulates the expression of gene networks controlling lipid metabolism, inflammation, and cholesterol homeostasis. It plays a crucial role in maintaining cholesterol and lipid homeostasis in the body.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Alterations in the function of LXRα have been implicated in several human diseases, including atherosclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, and certain types of cancer. In atherosclerosis, LXRα activation can reduce the disease progression by promoting cholesterol efflux from macrophages. In Alzheimer's disease, LXRα may play a role in the regulation of amyloid-beta production and clearance. In cancer, LXRα has been shown to inhibit cell proliferation and induce apoptosis in certain types of cancer cells.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]



WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD