Retinoid X Receptor: Cellular and Biochemical Roles of Nuclear Receptor with a Focus on Neuropathological Involvement

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Molecular Biology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Retinoid X receptors (RXRs) are nuclear receptors with conserved ligand-binding domains.
• They exist as α, β, and γ isotypes, forming homo-/heterodimeric complexes.
• RXR roles in neurological disorders are under-investigated despite their function as ligand-regulated transcription factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current knowledge on RXR roles in central nervous system (CNS) disorders.
• To explore RXR interacting partners and ligands relevant to neuropathology.
• To highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting RXRs in neurological conditions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing research on RXRs and CNS disorders.
• Analysis of studies investigating RXR signaling pathways in neuroinflammation and neuronal stress.
• Examination of preclinical data on pharmacological targeting of RXRs in neurodegenerative diseases.

Main Results:

• Abnormal RXR signaling is implicated in neuronal stress and neuroinflammation in various neuropathologies.
• Pharmacological targeting of RXRs demonstrates protective effects in models of Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, glaucoma, multiple sclerosis, and stroke.
• RXR modulation influences gene expression critical for developmental, metabolic, and biochemical processes.

Conclusions:

• RXRs play a significant role in the pathophysiology of CNS disorders.
• Targeting RXRs offers a promising therapeutic strategy for neurodegenerative diseases and neuronal injury.
• Further research into RXR isotype heterogeneity and dimer function can enhance drug targeting efficiency.