Molecular Classification
Transcription factor, bHLH/LZ Myc/Max/Mad superfamily
Other Names
MLX-interacting protein-like, MLXIPL, WBSCR17
Disease Roles
Williams-Beuren SyndromeNon-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)Hepatic steatosis

Carbohydrate response element-binding protein Overview

Carbohydrate response element-binding protein (ChREBP) is a basic helix-loop-helix leucine zipper (bHLH/LZ) transcription factor that acts as a "glucose sensor". It regulates genes involved in glycolysis and de novo lipogenesis by binding to carbohydrate response element (ChoRE) motifs in target gene promoters. Its activity is regulated by intracellular metabolites and post-translational modifications. ChREBP is highly expressed in the liver but also present in adipose tissue, intestine, kidney, and pancreatic β-cells. Dysregulation of ChREBP is implicated in metabolic diseases such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and type 2 diabetes.

Mechanism of Action

Heterodimerizes with MLX, binds to ChoRE motifs in target gene promoters, and activates gene transcription in a glucose-dependent manner.

Biological Functions

Regulation of glycolytic/lipogenic genes
Glucose sensing
Metabolic homeostasis

Disease Associations

Williams-Beuren Syndrome
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
Hepatic steatosis
Type 2 diabetes

Safety Considerations

  • Overexpression or chronic activation leads to hepatic steatosis
  • Chronic hyperglycemia activates ChREBP in pancreatic β-cells causing lipotoxicity and apoptosis