1. 'Don't know much bile-ology'
- Author
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Chawla, Ajay, Saez, Enrique, and Evans, Ronald M.
- Subjects
Cytochemistry -- Research ,Apolipoproteins -- Genetic aspects ,Bile acids -- Physiological aspects ,Genetic regulation -- Physiological aspects ,Cell nuclei -- Physiological aspects ,Lipid metabolism -- Physiological aspects ,Hormone receptors -- Physiological aspects ,Cholesterol -- Physiological aspects ,Homeostasis -- Physiological aspects ,Vertebrates -- Physiological aspects ,Liver -- Physiological aspects ,Biological sciences - Abstract
Recently published work that establishes a specific role for the nuclear receptor FXR in cholesterol catabolism pathways and in repression of the CYP7A1 gene and regulation by nuclear receptors, is discussed in this review article. The rate-limiting step of the neutral bile biosynthesis pathway is catalyzed by the cytochrome P450 cholesterol 7alpha-hydroxylase or CYP7A1. Lipid homeostasis in vertebrates, that is, the acquisition, synthesis and metabolism of cholesterol, is important. As mediators of organ physiology, nuclear hormone receptors, and other proteins are thought to play a vital role in the processes by controlling the transcription of genes encoding the transporters, the apoplipoproteins, as well as catabolic and synthetic enzymes. Implications for future drug development in treatment of hypercholesterolemia and cholestasis are important.
- Published
- 2000