Abstract
The Liver X Receptor (LXR) α and β isoforms are members of the type II nuclear receptor family which function as obligate heterodimers with the Retinoid X Receptor (RXR). Upon agonist binding, the DNA Binding Domain (DBD) of LXR interacts with LXR response elements on target genes to initiate transcription. A number of genes have been shown to be modulated by LXR function, including the ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1). ABCA1 is involved in the process of reverse cholesterol transport (RCT) from macrophages in atherosclerotic plaques to highdensity lipoproteins (HDL) in the plasma. Both homozygous and heterozygous mutations in ABCA1 result in conditions characterised by decreased levels of HDL and an earlier onset of atherosclerosis. A number of other genes are upregulated by LXR activation which would be expected to have either pro- or anti-atherogenic effects. One such target gene is sterol regulatory element binding protein-1c (SREBP-1c), which is involved in the process of lipogenesis leading to increased levels of triglycerides which are pro-atherogenic. The complexity of LXR responses, however, makes it difficult to extrapolate the positive or negative effects of each target gene in isolation to a conclusion as to the outcome in humans when all target genes are being modulated in concert. This review will cover the structural features and associated biological data of non-steroidal LXR modulators claimed for the treatment of cardiovascular disease, as well as highlighting preferred compounds where this information can be discerned. In addition to this patent information a précis of literature data relevant to the utility of specific compounds in the treatment of cardiovascular disease will be given where available.
Keywords: Liver X receptor (LXR), alpha (α) and beta (β) isoforms, ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1), reverse cholesterol transport (RCT), atherosclerosis
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