Constitutive androstane receptor (CAR) is a xenosensor and target for therapy

E M Kachaylo1, V O Pustylnyak, V V Lyakhovich

  • 1Institute of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, Siberian Division of the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia.

Biochemistry. Biokhimiia
|November 22, 2011
PubMed

Insights

The constitutive androstane receptor (CAR) is a nuclear receptor with unique ligand interactions and broad physiological roles. Understanding CAR

Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology and Toxicology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • The constitutive androstane receptor (CAR, NR1I3) is a nuclear receptor with unique structural and functional properties.
  • CAR exhibits constitutive activity and interacts with diverse ligands in a species-specific manner.
  • CAR plays a significant role in various physiological functions, including metabolism and hormonal regulation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the distinct features of CAR compared to other nuclear receptors.
  • To analyze the diverse functions of CAR in physiological processes.
  • To highlight the significance of CAR in both fundamental science and practical medicine.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of existing studies on CAR.
  • Analysis of CAR's structural features and ligand interactions.
  • Synthesis of information on CAR's physiological roles and pathological implications.

Main Results:

  • CAR possesses unique structural characteristics enabling ligand-independent activity and broad ligand binding.
  • CAR significantly influences gluconeogenesis, xenobiotic metabolism, and bile acid homeostasis.
  • Dysregulation of CAR activity is linked to various pathological conditions.

Conclusions:

  • CAR is a crucial regulator of diverse physiological processes with significant implications for health and disease.
  • Further research is needed to elucidate the complex mechanisms underlying CAR's functions.
  • Understanding CAR's role is vital for developing therapeutic strategies targeting metabolic and other disorders.

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