Transcriptional integration of metabolism by the nuclear sterol-activated receptors LXR and FXR

Nuclear receptors integrate hormonal and nutritional signals, resulting in changes to key metabolic pathways within the body. The liver X receptor (LXR) and the farnesoid X receptor (FXR), which are activated by oxysterols and bile acids, respectively, have essential roles in the regulation of cholesterol and bile acid metabolism but are also key integrators of sterol, fatty acid and glucose metabolism. Nuclear receptors are integrators of hormonal and nutritional signals, mediating changes to metabolic pathways within the body. Given that modulation of lipid and glucose metabolism has been linked to diseases including type 2 diabetes, obesity and atherosclerosis, a greater understanding of pathways that regulate metabolism in physiology and disease is crucial. The liver X receptors (LXRs) and the farnesoid X receptors (FXRs) are activated by oxysterols and bile acids, respectively. Mounting evidence indicates that these nuclear receptors have essential roles, not only in the regulation of cholesterol and bile acid metabolism but also in the integration of sterol, fatty acid and glucose metabolism.