Nuclear Receptors in Immune Function

Immune cells have the capacity to respond to the changing extra- and intracellular lipid environment by altered gene expression and consequential changes in their phenotypes. The effects of many lipid molecules are mediated by a large group of ligand-activated transcription factors, termed nuclear receptors. These molecules are able to bind various lipids and modify gene expression that ultimately impacts cellular functions. In this article, we summarize our current understanding of the activity of a group of nuclear receptors with established roles in regulating the functions of immune cells including macrophages, dendritic cells, and lymphocytes. It appears that lipids have a major impact on immune cell activity and in this way provide a link between metabolic state and immune function. Also, some of these receptors are established or emerging drug targets in acute and chronic inflammatory diseases.