Progression in the study on roles of farnesoid X receptor

The farnesoid X receptor(FXR)is a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily.It was studied extensively as a receptor for bile acids at first and found to control the metabolism of bile acids.In the past several years,FXR has been found that besides maintaining the homeostasis of bile acids,it also regulates the metabolism of lipid and carbohydrate,protects hepatocytes,promotes hepatic regeneration,inhibits hepatic fibrosis,regulates intestinal bacterial growth,etc.This article reviews the study progression of FXR,especially in the new discovery of FXR functions.