A review of the molecular design and biological activities of RXR agonists

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Pharmacology
• Genetics

Background:

• Nuclear receptors (NRs) regulate crucial cellular functions, including gene transcription.
• The retinoid X receptor (RXR) is a central NR, interacting with a significant portion of human NRs.
• Dysregulation of cellular functions mediated by RXR is implicated in diseases such as cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the key features of the retinoid X receptor (RXR).
• To provide a historical perspective on the development of RXR agonists.
• To discuss diverse RXR-activating compounds, focusing on their structure, activity, and limitations.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific publications on retinoid X receptor (RXR) agonists.
• Analysis of molecular structures and biological activities of reported RXR activators.
• Synthesis of historical data and current research findings.

Main Results:

• Retinoid X receptors (RXRs) are critical regulators of cellular processes.
• Various molecular templates have been identified as RXR agonists.
• Current RXR agonists possess limitations that hinder clinical application.

Conclusions:

• Targeting retinoid X receptor (RXR) activity is a viable therapeutic strategy for multiple diseases.
• Further research is needed to overcome limitations of current RXR agonists.
• Development of novel RXR modulators is essential for clinical translation.