Activation of liver X receptors promotes neuroprotection and reduces brain inflammation in experimental stroke.

Background: The liver X receptors (LXRs) belong to the nuclear receptor superfamily and act as transcriptional regulators of cholesterol metabolism in several tissues. Recent work also has identified LXRs as potent antiinflammatory molecules in macrophages and other immune cells. Combined changes in lipid and inflammatory profiles are likely mediating the protective role of LXRs in models of chronic injury like atherosclerosis.