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Updated: Aug 19, 2025

Cell Type-specific Gene Expression Profiling in the Mouse Liver
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The Farnesoid X Receptor as a Master Regulator of Hepatotoxicity

Magdalena Rausch1, Sophia L Samodelov1, Michele Visentin1

  • 1Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, 8006 Zurich, Switzerland.

International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|November 26, 2022
PubMed

Insights

The farnesoid X receptor (FXR) regulates bile acid and lipid metabolism, protecting liver cells from damage. FXR agonists are being developed for treating liver diseases.

Area of Science:

  • Hepatology
  • Endocrinology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • The nuclear receptor farnesoid X receptor (FXR) is a key regulator of bile acid metabolism and systemic lipid homeostasis.
  • FXR plays a crucial role in maintaining hepatic function and protecting hepatocytes from injury.
  • FXR acts at the intersection of bile acid, lipid, and drug metabolism.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the mechanisms by which FXR modulates the expression of transporters and enzymes involved in metabolism.
  • To summarize FXR's influence on the pathogenesis of hepatotoxicity.
  • To provide an overview of the clinical development of FXR agonists for liver diseases.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on FXR function and clinical trials.
  • Analysis of FXR's role in regulating metabolic pathways.
  • Synthesis of current knowledge on FXR agonists in liver disease treatment.

Main Results:

  • FXR modulates specific and polyspecific transporters and enzymes.
  • FXR influences the onset and progression of hepatotoxicity.
  • FXR agonists show promise in treating various liver diseases.

Conclusions:

  • FXR is a critical regulator of metabolic homeostasis and liver protection.
  • Targeting FXR with agonists represents a promising therapeutic strategy for liver diseases.
  • Further clinical development of FXR agonists is warranted.
Keywords:
NAFLD and NASHdrug-induced liver injuryfarnesoid X receptor (FXR)hepatotoxicityinflammationliver

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