Retinoids as regulators of gene transcription

Our understanding on the molecular mechanisms that underlie complex biology of retinoids' action has increased tremendously in recent years. Retinoids can bind and activate heterodimeric receptors and can directly affect transcriptional regulation of certain genes. Alternatively, they can indirectly affect the transcriptional regulation by inhibiting certain transcription factors, such as AP-1 and STAT-3. Alterations in retinoid receptor and subsequent signaling during acute promyelocytic leukemia [APL, characterized by a specific chromosome translocation, t(15;17)], has provided invaluable tool for understanding the myeloid differentiation at molecular level. Studies with APL have highlighted the critical role that retinoids play in cancer and its treatment with retinoids.