REV-ERB and ROR nuclear receptors as drug targets

Douglas J Kojetin1, Thomas P Burris2

  • 1Department of Molecular Therapeutics, The Scripps Research Institute, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter, Florida 33458, USA.

Insights

Nuclear receptors REV-ERB (REV-ERBα/β) and RORs (RORα/β/γ) regulate key physiological processes. Targeting these receptors with novel synthetic ligands shows promise for treating metabolic, inflammatory, and cancerous diseases.

Area of Science:

  • Endocrinology and Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Nuclear receptors REV-ERB (REV-ERBα/β) and RORs (RORα/β/γ) are crucial regulators of metabolism, development, immunity, and circadian rhythms.
  • These receptors were initially termed 'orphan' due to the lack of identified endogenous ligands.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the latest advancements in the pharmacology of ROR and REV-ERB nuclear receptors.
  • To highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting these receptors for various diseases.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent developments in ROR and REV-ERB research.
  • Analysis of studies on endogenous and synthetic ligand characterization.
  • Evaluation of pharmacological data and therapeutic implications.

Main Results:

  • Endogenous ligands for RORs and REV-ERBs have been identified, validating them as druggable targets.
  • Development of synthetic ligands has accelerated, showing therapeutic potential.
  • ROR and REV-ERB targeting is being explored for diseases like diabetes, atherosclerosis, autoimmunity, and cancer.

Conclusions:

  • ROR and REV-ERB nuclear receptors are validated as druggable targets.
  • Pharmacological targeting of RORs and REV-ERBs offers a promising therapeutic strategy for multiple disorders.
  • Further research into ROR and REV-ERB ligands could lead to novel treatments.

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