[The recent progress in the studies of vitamin D receptor]

Jian Cui1, Hong Chen, Bing-ren Huang

  • 1National Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China.

Insights

The Vitamin D receptor (VDR) regulates gene expression. Recent research explores its co-regulators, functions in development and immunity, and potential as a cancer suppressor, alongside VDR ligand analog drug development.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Endocrinology
  • Gene Regulation
  • Nuclear Receptors

Context:

  • The Vitamin D receptor (VDR) is a crucial nuclear receptor mediating the effects of Vitamin D.
  • VDR plays a significant role in cellular processes by regulating gene expression.
  • Understanding VDR's interactions and functions is key to various biological pathways.

Purpose:

  • To review recent advancements in Vitamin D receptor (VDR) research.
  • To highlight VDR's involvement in co-activator and co-repressor interactions.
  • To summarize VDR's functional roles and therapeutic potential.

Summary:

  • This review covers recent progress in VDR studies, focusing on its co-regulators (co-activator, co-repressor).
  • It details VDR's functions in development, differentiation, immuno-regulation, and as a cancer repressor.
  • The article also summarizes recent developments in VDR ligand analog drug discovery.

Impact:

  • Provides a comprehensive overview of current VDR research for scientists and clinicians.
  • Identifies VDR's multifaceted roles in health and disease, including cancer.
  • Informs future drug development strategies targeting VDR pathways for therapeutic benefit.

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