The role of the farnesoid X receptor in metabolic control

PhD ceremony: Ms. J.H.M. Stroeve, 14.45 uur, Academiegebouw, Broerstraat 5, Groningen

Title: The role of the farnesoid X receptor in metabolic control

Promotor(s): prof. F. Kuipers, prof. B. Staels

Faculty: Medical Sciences

Obesity increases the risk of serious health problems, including metabolic diseases such as the metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes. The subject of this thesis was to study the role of the so-called farnesoid X receptor (FXR) in regulating various metabolic processes including those of bile acids, sugars and fats. First, the relative contribution of FXR in the intestine to the regulation of hepatic bile acid production has been determined in mice. Then the consequences of FXR-deficiency on the metabolism of bile acids, sugars and fats were studied in mouse models of obesity. Finally, the role of FXR in the development and functioning of adipose tissue was examined. Together, the results indicate that FXR is an interesting starting point to influence the regulation of various metabolic processes.