The farnesoid X receptor and colon cancer

Abstract

Worldwide, colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer death, primarily because of limited therapeutic options for those with advanced disease. The farnesoid X receptor (FXR) is a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily of ligand-activated transcription factors. Besides its prominent role in bile acid synthesis, and lipoprotein and glucose metabolism, recent data indicate that FXR also plays a key role in regulating intestinal cell proliferation and carcinogenesis. Here, we review the role of FXR as a tumor suppressor in CRC, with particular emphasis on the molecular mechanisms underlying FXR-dependent tumorigenesis and its regulation, FXR-bile acid relationships and FXR-targeted drugs as potential therapeutic agents.

Keywords

Colon cancer / farnesoid X receptor / nuclear receptor / tumor suppressor

References

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