Pregnane X Receptor
Full Form of PXR
What is PXR?
Pregnane X Receptor (PXR) is a nuclear receptor that acts as a master regulator of drug metabolism and detoxification in the human body. Primarily expressed in the liver and intestine, PXR is activated by a wide range of endogenous and exogenous compounds, including steroids, bile acids, and pharmaceutical drugs. Upon activation, PXR induces the expression of cytochrome P450 enzymes (such as CYP3A4) and transporters, which break down and eliminate substances. In the Indian healthcare context, PXR plays a critical role in understanding variable drug responses among the diverse population, especially in treatments for tuberculosis (where rifampicin strongly activates PXR), HIV, and cancer. It is studied in pharmacology research, drug development, and personalized medicine. The receptor is also linked to liver diseases and metabolic disorders. For students appearing in Indian medical and pharmacy entrance exams (like NEET, GPAT, and CSIR-UGC NET), knowledge of PXR is essential for questions on drug interactions and nuclear receptors. Clinical trials in India often evaluate PXR polymorphisms to predict adverse drug reactions. Overall, PXR is a key molecular target for designing safer and more effective medicines tailored to Indian patients.
PXR का फुल फॉर्म
प्रेगनेन एक्स रिसेप्टर
Example
The PXR activation by rifampicin leads to increased metabolism of antiretroviral drugs, requiring dose adjustments in HIV-TB co-infected patients in Indian hospitals.