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Retinoid Receptors

Meaning

Retinoid receptors are a crucial family of nuclear receptors, including the Retinoic Acid Receptors (RARs) and Retinoid X Receptors (RXRs), that function as ligand-activated transcription factors. These intracellular proteins mediate the vast biological effects of retinoids, which are derivatives of Vitamin A, by regulating the precise expression of target genes involved in cellular differentiation, proliferation, and programmed cell death. Their mechanism of action places them firmly within the broader superfamily of steroid and thyroid hormone receptors, highlighting their role as key endocrine-like modulators of gene expression.