Retinoic acid receptor beta (RARβ)

Retinoic acid receptor beta (RARβ), encoded by the RARB gene, is a nuclear receptor and transcription factor that belongs to the thyroid-steroid hormone receptor superfamily. It plays a crucial role in embryonic development, cell growth, differentiation, and homeostasis. As a tumor suppressor, its deletion or silencing is associated with various cancers. RARβ forms functional heterodimers with retinoid X receptors (RXRs) and binds to retinoic acid response elements (RAREs) to regulate gene expression. The unique structure of its ligand-binding domain allows for the development of isoform-selective ligands.

Other names

NR1B2HBV-activated proteinRAR BetaRAR-betaRetinoic acid receptor beta 1/2/3/4 (RAR beta1/beta2/beta3/beta4)RAR-epsilonRRB2

Ligand binding to RARβ leads to heterodimerization with RXR, binding to RAREs on DNA, and regulation of gene transcription. Selective agonists can induce tumor-specific apoptosis.