| abstract |
The present invention relates to methods and compositions for modulating genes which are controlled by the FXR nuclear hormone receptor such as Cyp7a, Cyp8b, phospholipid transfer protein, ileal bile acid binding protein, sodium taurocholate cotransporter protein, liver fatty acid binding protein and bile salt export pump. In a preferred embodiment, the method involves modulation of the gene encoding Cyp7a, the enzyme responsible for a major pathway in the elimination of cholesterol. The invention also relates to methods for screening compounds which bind to and activate or inhibit the FXR nuclear hormone receptor and compounds which activate or inhibit the FXR nuclear hormone receptor. |