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Role of FXR in Renal Physiology and Kidney Diseases
Yanlin Guo1, Guixiang Xie1, Xiaoyan Zhang1
1Health Science Center, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China.
Abstract:
Farnesoid X receptor, also known as the bile acid receptor, belongs to the nuclear receptor (NR) superfamily of ligand-regulated transcription factors, which performs its functions by regulating the transcription of target genes. FXR is highly expressed in the liver, small intestine, kidney and adrenal gland, maintaining homeostasis of bile acid, glucose and lipids by regulating a diverse array of target genes. It also participates in several pathophysiological processes, such as inflammation, immune responses and fibrosis. The kidney is a key organ that manages water and solute homeostasis for the whole body, and kidney injury or dysfunction is associated with high morbidity and mortality. In the kidney, FXR plays an important role in renal water reabsorption and is thought to perform protective functions in acute kidney disease and chronic kidney disease, especially diabetic kidney disease. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in the understanding of the physiological and pathophysiological function of FXR in the kidney.
Insights
Farnesoid X receptor (FXR), the bile acid receptor, is crucial for maintaining homeostasis in organs like the kidney. This review highlights FXR's protective roles in kidney disease.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology and Metabolism
- Nephrology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Farnesoid X receptor (FXR), a nuclear receptor, regulates bile acid, glucose, and lipid homeostasis.
- FXR is expressed in key organs including the liver, intestine, and kidney.
- FXR influences physiological processes and pathophysiological conditions like inflammation and fibrosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the physiological and pathophysiological functions of FXR in the kidney.
- To explore FXR's role in maintaining renal homeostasis.
- To summarize FXR's protective effects in kidney diseases.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent advances in FXR research.
- Analysis of FXR's role in renal water reabsorption.
- Examination of FXR's involvement in acute and chronic kidney diseases.
Main Results:
- FXR plays a significant role in renal water reabsorption.
- FXR exhibits protective functions in acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD).
- FXR is particularly important in diabetic kidney disease.
Conclusions:
- FXR is a key regulator of kidney function and homeostasis.
- FXR demonstrates therapeutic potential for various kidney diseases.
- Further research into FXR's renal functions is warranted.
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