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Updated: Jul 7, 2026

Reverse Yeast Two-hybrid System to Identify Mammalian Nuclear Receptor Residues that Interact with Ligands and/or Antagonists
Published on: November 15, 2013
Nuclear receptors as drug targets in obesity, dyslipidemia and atherosclerosis
Michael K Hansen1, Thomas M Connolly
1Wyeth Research, Discovery Translational Medicine, 500 Arcola Rd, Collegeville, PA 19426, USA. hansenm@wyeth.com
Abstract:
Nuclear hormone receptors, including peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), liver X receptors (LXRs), and the farnesoid X receptor (FXR), are transcription factors involved in the regulation of essential metabolic functions, including glucose and lipid metabolism, reverse cholesterol transport, and the regulation of bile acids. This review summarizes new developments in the use of PPAR, LXR and FXR agonists for the treatment of obesity and cardiovascular diseases, including dyslipidemia and atherosclerosis. Currently available drugs and future areas of research for new therapies are also discussed.
Insights
Nuclear hormone receptors like PPARs, LXRs, and FXR regulate metabolism. Agonists for these receptors show promise in treating obesity and cardiovascular diseases such as dyslipidemia and atherosclerosis.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology and Metabolism
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Nuclear hormone receptors, including peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), liver X receptors (LXRs), and farnesoid X receptor (FXR), are key regulators of metabolic processes.
- These receptors influence glucose and lipid metabolism, reverse cholesterol transport, and bile acid homeostasis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in utilizing PPAR, LXR, and FXR agonists for therapeutic interventions.
- To discuss the potential of these agonists in managing obesity and cardiovascular conditions like dyslipidemia and atherosclerosis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current research on nuclear hormone receptor agonists.
- Analysis of preclinical and clinical studies investigating the efficacy of PPAR, LXR, and FXR agonists.
Main Results:
- PPAR, LXR, and FXR agonists demonstrate significant potential in modulating metabolic pathways relevant to obesity and cardiovascular disease.
- Evidence suggests these agonists can improve lipid profiles and reduce atherosclerotic burden.
Conclusions:
- Agonists targeting PPAR, LXR, and FXR represent a promising therapeutic strategy for metabolic and cardiovascular disorders.
- Further research into currently available drugs and novel therapies is warranted to optimize treatment outcomes.
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