Orphan nuclear receptors: shifting endocrinology into reverse

SA Kliewer, JM Lehmann, TM Willson - Science, 1999 - science.org
SA Kliewer, JM Lehmann, TM Willson
Science, 1999science.org
Steroid and thyroid hormones and vitamin A metabolites (retinoids) regulate the expression
of complex gene programs by binding to members of the nuclear receptor family of ligand-
activated transcription factors. The nuclear receptor family also includes many “orphan”
members that currently lack known ligands but that represent candidate receptors for new
hormones. Recently, natural and synthetic ligands have been identified for several orphan
receptors and used to dissect their biological roles. This “reverse endocrinology” strategy …
Steroid and thyroid hormones and vitamin A metabolites (retinoids) regulate the expression of complex gene programs by binding to members of the nuclear receptor family of ligand-activated transcription factors. The nuclear receptor family also includes many “orphan” members that currently lack known ligands but that represent candidate receptors for new hormones. Recently, natural and synthetic ligands have been identified for several orphan receptors and used to dissect their biological roles. This “reverse endocrinology” strategy has resulted in the discovery of unanticipated nuclear signaling pathways for retinoids, fatty acids, eicosanoids, and steroids with important physiological and pharmacological ramifications.
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