La Jolla Cancer Research Foundation

Sri International

Jurgen M Lehmann

Magnus Pfahl

Ling Jong

Xiao-kun Zhang

Peter D Hobbs

Marcia I Dawson

Marcia L Dawson

Bridged bicyclic aromatic compounds are provided having the structure ##STR1## wherein R.sup.1, R.sup.2, R.sup.3, R.sup.4, R.sup.5 and n are as defined herein. The novel compounds are useful for modulating gene expression of retinoic acid receptors, vitamin D receptors and thyroid receptors. Pharmaceutical compositions and methods for modulating gene expression are provided as well.

Bridged bicyclic aromatic compounds and their use in modulating gene

The invention provides a method of screening a substance for the ability to effect the formation of a retinoid X receptor homodimer comprising combining the substance and a solution containing retinoid X receptors and determining the presence of homodimer formation. Also provided is a method of screening a substance for an effect on a retinoid X receptor homodimer's ability to bind DNA comprising combining the substance with the homodimer and determining the effect of the compound on the homodimer's ability to bind DNA. A method of inhibiting an activity of a retinoid X receptor heterodimer comprising increasing the formation of a retinoid X receptor homodimer, thereby preventing the retinoid X receptor from forming a heterodimer and preventing the resulting heterodimer activity is also provided. A method of inhibiting an activity of a retinoid X receptor homodimer is also provided. A method of determining an increased probability of a pathology associated with retinoid X receptor homodimer formation and treating such pathology are further provided. In addition, a method of screening a response element for binding with a retinoid X receptor homodimer is provided. Finally, the invention provides methods of activating retinoid X receptor homodimer formation.

RXR homodimer formation

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Solana Beach, CA, United States of America

Jurgen M Lehmann