research feed

Every NR4A2 paper, in plain English

PubMed and the Europe PMC preprint servers are queried daily for NR4A2 and NURR1, back to the earliest records. Each abstract is summarised locally by Qwen3.6 35B and tagged by relevance to a parent of an NR4A2 child. Source links go straight to the paper.

subscribe (Atom feed) · high and medium relevance only

registered clinical trials

Every ClinicalTrials.gov study whose record mentions NR4A2 or NURR1. Most use NURR1 as a Parkinson's biomarker rather than testing anything for this syndrome, so read the conditions line. Studies still open come first. Last checked 2026-09-13.

completed or inactive (4) ›
medium2018-04-24 · Frontiers in cellular neuroscience

Environmental Enrichment Prevents Transcriptional Disturbances Induced by Alpha-Synuclein Overexpression.

Wassouf Z, Hentrich T, Samer S, Rotermund C, Kahle PJ, Ehrlich I, Riess O, Casadei N, Schulze-Hentrich JM

An enriched environment prevents the gene activity disturbances caused by alpha-synuclein overexpression in mice. This protective effect involves sustaining the activation of immediate early genes, including Nurr1 (NR4A2).

  • Enriched environments prevent transcriptional disturbances from alpha-synuclein in mice.
  • Alpha-synuclein reduces levels of Nurr1 and other presynaptic proteins.
  • Enrichment sustains activation of immediate early genes like Nurr1.
  • This suggests environmental stimuli might mimic therapeutic benefits for neurodegeneration.
medium2018-04-06 · The Journal of pharmacology and experimental therapeutics

The Nurr1 Ligand,1,1-bis(3'-Indolyl)-1-(p-Chlorophenyl)Methane, Modulates Glial Reactivity and Is Neuroprotective in MPTP-Induced Parkinsonism.

Hammond SL, Popichak KA, Li X, Hunt LG, Richman EH, Damale PU, Chong EKP, Backos DS, Safe S, Tjalkens RB

A synthetic compound that activates the Nurr1 protein reduces brain inflammation and protects dopamine neurons in mice with Parkinson-like damage. This preclinical study suggests that targeting Nurr1 could potentially modify disease progression, but it does not provide evidence of safety or efficacy in humans.

  • The drug C-DIM12 activates Nurr1 and crosses the blood-brain barrier effectively in mice.
  • Treatment suppressed glial inflammation and prevented dopamine neuron loss in a Parkinson's mouse model.
  • This is preclinical animal research with no human clinical data or trial results.
  • Findings do not directly address NR4A2-related developmental syndromes or current treatments.
medium2018-04-06 · Frontiers in neuroscience

Ultrasound-Triggered Effects of the Microbubbles Coupled to GDNF Plasmid-Loaded PEGylated Liposomes in a Rat Model of Parkinson's Disease.

Yue P, Miao W, Gao L, Zhao X, Teng J

Ultrasound-triggered delivery of GDNF gene therapy reduces behavioral deficits and neuron loss in a rat model of Parkinson's disease. The treatment increases the expression of both GDNF and Nurr1, suggesting a potential mechanism for dopaminergic rescue.

  • Study uses a rat Parkinson's model, not humans or NR4A2 syndrome patients.
  • Treatment involves ultrasound-triggered gene delivery of GDNF plasmids.
  • Results show improved behavior and preserved dopamine neurons in rats.
  • Nurr1 expression increases alongside GDNF, linking to the parent's interest.
medium2018-03-21 · Molecular neurobiology

Kir6.2 Deficiency Promotes Mesencephalic Neural Precursor Cell Differentiation via Regulating miR-133b/GDNF in a Parkinson's Disease Mouse Model.

Zhou Y, Zhu J, Lv Y, Song C, Ding J, Xiao M, Lu M, Hu G

Removing the Kir6.2 gene in mice increases the production of dopamine-producing neurons by boosting GDNF levels, which helps repair damage caused by Parkinson's-like toxins. This suggests that blocking Kir6.2 could potentially stimulate the brain's natural ability to replace lost dopamine cells.

  • Kir6.2 deficiency boosts differentiation of precursors into dopamine neurons in mice.
  • The mechanism involves inhibiting miR-133b, which normally suppresses the protective factor GDNF.
  • Blocking Kir6.2 activates an endogenous self-repair process for damaged dopamine neurons.
  • This is a preclinical mouse study with no human clinical data or trials.
medium2018-03-09 · Scientific reports

Whole transcriptome profiling of Late-Onset Alzheimer's Disease patients provides insights into the molecular changes involved in the disease.

Annese A, Manzari C, Lionetti C, Picardi E, Horner DS, Chiara M, Caratozzolo MF, Tullo A, Fosso B, Pesole G, D'Erchia AM

This study identifies miR-184 as a regulator of NR4A2 in the human hippocampus, showing that their expression levels are inversely correlated in Alzheimer's disease. The findings provide molecular evidence that NR4A2 is involved in cognitive functions and memory processes within the human brain.

  • miR-184 directly targets the NR4A2 gene in the human hippocampus.
  • NR4A2 expression decreases as miR-184 levels increase in Alzheimer's patients.
  • The study confirms NR4A2's role in cognitive function and long-term memory.
  • Transcriptome profiling reveals specific deregulated genes in late-onset Alzheimer's disease.
medium2018-03-08 · Stem cell reports

miR-34b/c Regulates Wnt1 and Enhances Mesencephalic Dopaminergic Neuron Differentiation.

De Gregorio R, Pulcrano S, De Sanctis C, Volpicelli F, Guatteo E, von Oerthel L, Latagliata EC, Esposito R, Piscitelli RM, Perrone-Capano C, Costa V, Greco D, Puglisi-Allegra S, Smidt MP, di Porzio U, Caiazzo M, Mercuri NB, Li M, Bellenchi GC

This study shows that miR-34b/c enhances the creation of dopaminergic neurons from skin cells when combined with NURR1, a protein related to NR4A2. The resulting cells function like real brain neurons by producing dopamine and firing electrical signals.

  • miR-34b/c boosts the conversion of skin cells into dopamine-producing neurons.
  • Combining miR-34b/c with NURR1 doubles the yield of these specialized cells.
  • The generated cells exhibit natural dopamine synthesis and electrical activity.
  • This offers a potential method for generating patient-specific dopaminergic neurons in the lab.
medium2018-03-07 · Journal of cellular biochemistry

Ultrasound-triggered effects of the microbubbles coupled to GDNF- and Nurr1-loaded PEGylated liposomes in a rat model of Parkinson's disease.

Yue P, Gao L, Wang X, Ding X, Teng J

Ultrasound-triggered delivery of GDNF and Nurr1 via liposomes reduces motor deficits and preserves dopamine neurons in a rat model of Parkinson's disease. The combined gene therapy approach proves more effective than single-gene treatments in this preclinical animal study.

  • Study uses rats, not humans, limiting direct clinical applicability.
  • Combining GDNF and Nurr1 genes outperforms single-gene delivery.
  • Ultrasound helps deliver therapy across the blood-brain barrier.
  • Results show reduced motor impairment and neuron loss in animals.
medium2018-02-15 · CNS neuroscience & therapeutics

Nurr1 promotes neurogenesis of dopaminergic neuron and represses inflammatory factors in the transwell coculture system of neural stem cells and microglia.

Chen XX, Qian Y, Wang XP, Tang ZW, Xu JT, Lin H, Yang ZY, Song XB, Lu D, Guo JZ, Bian LG, Li Y, Zhou L, Deng XL

Overexpressing Nurr1 in neural stem cells promotes their differentiation into dopamine-producing neurons and reduces inflammation from surrounding immune cells. This suggests that modifying stem cells with Nurr1 could improve survival and function if used for cell replacement therapies.

  • Nurr1 pushes stem cells to become dopamine neurons instead of glial cells.
  • Nurr1 suppresses inflammatory signals from microglia that harm neurons.
  • The study uses a lab coculture system, not living animals or humans.
  • Results support the theoretical basis for Nurr1-enhanced stem cell transplants.
medium2018-02-10 · Molecular neurobiology

Cilostazol Mediated Nurr1 and Autophagy Enhancement: Neuroprotective Activity in Rat Rotenone PD Model.

Hedya SA, Safar MM, Bahgat AK

Cilostazol protects dopaminergic neurons and improves motor function in rats with Parkinson's disease by increasing Nurr1 levels. The drug also reduces inflammation and cell death while enhancing cellular cleanup processes through related molecular pathways.

  • Cilostazol upregulates Nurr1, preserving dopamine neuron integrity in rat models.
  • Treatment improves motor performance and increases striatal tyrosine hydroxylase levels.
  • The drug reduces inflammation by inhibiting NF-kappa B signaling pathways.
  • Cilostazol prevents cell death by suppressing apoptotic biomarkers like caspase-3.
  • Enhanced autophagy occurs via Sirtuin 1 activation, aiding cellular health.
medium2017-12-30 · Life sciences

Neuroprotective effect of olfactory ensheathing cells co-transfected with Nurr1 and Ngn2 in both in vitro and in vivo models of Parkinson's disease.

Liu Q, Qin Q, Sun H, Zhong D, An R, Tian Y, Chen H, Jin J, Wang H, Li G

Transplanting olfactory ensheathing cells engineered to produce Nurr1 and Ngn2 reduces cell death and improves movement in rats with Parkinson's disease. This approach works by activating a specific growth factor pathway that protects neurons from damage.

  • Engineered cells protect dopamine neurons from oxidative stress and apoptosis in rat models.
  • Transplantation significantly improves motor behavior deficits in Parkinsonian rats.
  • The protective effect relies on the upregulation of the neurotrophic factor-TrkB pathway.
  • This is preclinical animal research with no human clinical data.
medium2017-12-11 · The Journal of clinical investigation

Cografting astrocytes improves cell therapeutic outcomes in a Parkinson's disease model.

Song JJ, Oh SM, Kwon OC, Wulansari N, Lee HS, Chang MY, Lee E, Sun W, Lee SE, Chang S, An H, Lee CJ, Lee SH

Adding midbrain astrocytes to neural progenitor cell transplants significantly improves neuron survival and therapeutic outcomes in a rat model of Parkinson's disease. Engineering these astrocytes with Nurr1 and Foxa2 further enhances their neuroprotective effects, suggesting a potential strategy to overcome the hostile brain environment that currently limits cell therapies.

  • Cografting midbrain astrocytes boosts neural progenitor cell engraftment in Parkinson's rats for over six months.
  • Engineering astrocytes with Nurr1 and Foxa2 enhances their neuroprotective properties.
  • This approach addresses the hostile host brain environment that limits current cell therapies.
  • The study uses a rat model, not human patients or NR4A2-specific cohorts.
medium2017-12-11 · The Journal of clinical investigation

Creating a graft-friendly environment for stem cells in diseased brains.

Tsai RY

Engineering astrocytes to overexpress Nurr1 and Foxa2 improves the survival and integration of transplanted stem cells in a rat model of Parkinson's disease. This approach creates a supportive environment that enhances therapeutic outcomes for neural grafts.

  • Engineered astrocytes improve stem cell survival in diseased brains.
  • Nurr1 and Foxa2 overexpression drives this protective effect.
  • The study uses a rat model of Parkinson's disease.
  • Results suggest potential for restorative treatments via modified astrocytes.
lower-relevance papers (28) ›
low2018-05-04 · Biomedical reports

Age-dependent decrease of Nurr1 protein expression in the gerbil hippocampus.

Ahn JH, Lee JS, Cho JH, Park JH, Lee TK, Song M, Kim H, Kang SH, Won MH, Lee CH

Nurr1 protein levels decline significantly in the hippocampus as gerbils age, correlating with reduced cognitive function. This natural aging process in a non-human model does not provide direct evidence for treating NR4A2-related syndromes in children.

  • Nurr1 protein decreases gradually in the gerbil hippocampus with advancing age.
  • Reduction is most severe in aged animals compared to young and adult groups.
  • Declining Nurr1 levels associate with normal aging and cognitive decline in gerbils.
  • Study uses animal models, offering no direct clinical guidance for human patients.
low2018-05-02 · Neuroreport

Proliferation and committed differentiation into dopamine neurons of neural stem cells induced by the active ingredients of radix astragali.

Gao H, Dou L, Shan L, Sun Y, Li W

Active ingredients from the herb radix astragali stimulate neural stem cells to multiply and differentiate into dopamine-producing neurons in a laboratory dish. This process involves increasing the expression of key genes, including Nurr1 (NR4A2), sonic hedgehog, and Ptx3, which drive the formation of these specific brain cells.

  • Radix astragali extracts boost neural stem cell proliferation in vitro.
  • The compounds induce differentiation into dopamine neurons specifically.
  • Treatment upregulates Nurr1 (NR4A2), Shh, and Ptx3 gene expression.
  • This is a preclinical study using cell cultures, not humans or animals.
low2018-04-25 · Stem cell research & therapy

DNA topoisomerase IIβ stimulates neurite outgrowth in neural differentiated human mesenchymal stem cells through regulation of Rho-GTPases (RhoA/Rock2 pathway) and Nurr1 expression.

Zaim M, Isik S

Overexpressing DNA topoisomerase IIβ promotes neurite growth in human stem cells by regulating Rho-GTPases and increasing Nurr1 levels. Silencing this enzyme reduces neural differentiation and alters cell morphology, suggesting a role in maintaining neuronal structure.

  • Topo IIβ overexpression increases neurite length in human stem cells.
  • Silencing Topo IIβ reduces neural differentiation efficiency and neurite growth.
  • Nurr1 expression levels correlate directly with Topo IIβ presence.
  • The mechanism involves downregulating RhoA/Rock2 and upregulating Cdc42.
low2018-04-23 · PPAR research

Inhibitory Effects of a Novel PPAR-γ Agonist MEKT1 on Pomc Expression/ACTH Secretion in AtT20 Cells.

Parvin R, Noro E, Saito-Hakoda A, Shimada H, Suzuki S, Shimizu K, Miyachi H, Yokoyama A, Sugawara A

This study investigates a potential drug for Cushing's disease using mouse pituitary tumor cells, not human patients or NR4A2-related conditions. The research focuses on how the drug affects hormone production pathways unrelated to the dopaminergic system relevant to NR4A2 syndromes.

  • Study uses mouse pituitary cells, not human tissue or patients.
  • Focuses on Cushing's disease treatment, not NR4A2 syndrome.
  • No connection to dopaminergic neurons or motor symptoms.
  • Preclinical molecular biology with no clinical application for this child.
low2018-04-16 · Stem cells (Dayton, Ohio)

Neural Stem Cell Grafts Promote Astroglia-Driven Neurorestoration in the Aged Parkinsonian Brain via Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling.

L'Episcopo F, Tirolo C, Peruzzotti-Jametti L, Serapide MF, Testa N, Caniglia S, Balzarotti B, Pluchino S, Marchetti B

Transplanted neural stem cells restore damaged dopamine neurons in aged mice with Parkinson's disease by triggering astrocytes to activate a specific repair signaling pathway. This approach demonstrates that supporting the brain's own glial cells can reverse neuronal loss and immune dysfunction in an aging, diseased environment.

  • Neural stem cell grafts convert into astrocytes that trigger neuron repair in aged Parkinsonian mice.
  • The Wnt/beta-catenin signaling pathway drives the restoration of dopamine neurons and reduces inflammation.
  • Blocking this signaling pathway stops the therapeutic benefits, confirming its essential role in neurorestoration.
low2018-04-07 · Neuropharmacology

Nurr1: A vital participant in the TLR4-NF-κB signal pathway stimulated by α-synuclein in BV-2 cells.

Shao QH, Yan WF, Zhang Z, Ma KL, Peng SY, Cao YL, Yuan YH, Chen NH

This study shows that Nurr1 reduces inflammation in immune cells by blocking a specific signaling pathway triggered by abnormal protein aggregates. The findings are based entirely on cell cultures and mouse models, with no human data or direct clinical application established.

  • Nurr1 inhibits inflammatory responses in microglia by interacting with NF-κB.
  • The research uses only BV-2 cells and mouse models, not human subjects.
  • No evidence exists yet for treating NR4A2-related syndromes or Parkinson's in people.
  • This is basic molecular biology explaining a mechanism, not a therapy test.
low2018-03-20 · Cancer research

Inhibition of Nr4a Receptors Enhances Antitumor Immunity by Breaking Treg-Mediated Immune Tolerance.

Hibino S, Chikuma S, Kondo T, Ito M, Nakatsukasa H, Omata-Mise S, Yoshimura A

Blocking NR4A proteins in regulatory T cells removes their ability to suppress immune responses, allowing the body's own immune system to attack tumors more effectively. This approach boosts anti-tumor immunity without causing major autoimmune side effects in mice.

  • NR4A proteins help regulatory T cells suppress immune attacks on tumors
  • Turning off NR4A in T cells helps immune cells fight cancer
  • Existing drugs can block NR4A activity and enhance anti-tumor responses
  • This strategy works without causing severe autoimmunity in models
  • Could lead to new cancer treatments targeting immune suppression
low2018-03-14 · Cell death & disease

miR-381-3p knockdown improves intestinal epithelial proliferation and barrier function after intestinal ischemia/reperfusion injury by targeting nurr1.

Liu L, Yao J, Li Z, Zu G, Feng D, Li Y, Qasim W, Zhang S, Li T, Zeng H, Tian X

Inhibiting a specific microRNA restores intestinal barrier function and improves survival in mice suffering from ischemia/reperfusion injury by increasing the activity of Nurr1. This study demonstrates that Nurr1 is essential for protecting gut tissue during acute physical stress, but it does not address neurodevelopmental outcomes or motor symptoms relevant to NR4A2 syndrome.

  • Nurr1 supports intestinal epithelial proliferation and barrier integrity after injury.
  • Blocking miR-381-3p boosts Nurr1 levels and reduces tissue damage in mice.
  • The protective effect relies entirely on Nurr1-mediated pathways.
  • This research focuses on acute gut injury, not neurological development.
  • No clinical data or human trials are included in this study.
low2018-03-12 · Rejuvenation research

Generation of Dopamine-Secreting Cells from Human Adipose Tissue-Derived Stem Cells In Vitro.

Soheilifar MH, Javeri A, Amini H, Taha MF

Researchers successfully converted human fat-derived stem cells into dopamine-secreting neurons in a lab dish using specific growth factors. These engineered cells express key dopaminergic markers and release dopamine when stimulated, demonstrating the potential for cell replacement therapies.

  • Human adipose stem cells differentiate into dopamine-secreting neurons in vitro.
  • A specific growth factor cocktail drives this dopaminergic specification.
  • Differentiated cells express TH, NURR1, and other dopaminergic markers.
  • Cells release significant dopamine upon electrical stimulation.
  • This approach offers a potential source for Parkinson's disease cell therapy.
low2018-03-01 · European review for medical and pharmacological sciences

Correlation between Nurr1 expression and drug resistance in the brain of rats with epilepsy.

Li HY, Liu F, Wang HR

This study finds that Nurr1 levels rise in the brains of rats with drug-resistant epilepsy and correlate with markers of drug resistance. The findings are based entirely on animal models and do not provide evidence for human treatment or NR4A2-related syndromes.

  • Nurr1 protein increases in rat hippocampus during drug-resistant epilepsy.
  • Higher Nurr1 correlates with increased drug-resistance markers in rats.
  • The study uses only rat models, not human patients.
  • No clinical relevance for NR4A2 syndrome or human therapy is established.
low2018-02-22 · Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry

Effects of rhynchophylline on the hippocampal miRNA expression profile in ketamine-addicted rats.

Li C, Tu G, Luo C, Guo Y, Fang M, Zhu C, Li H, Ou J, Zhou Y, Liu W, Yung KKL, Mo Z

This study examines how a compound called rhynchophylline affects gene regulation in the brains of rats addicted to ketamine. It identifies a specific molecular pathway involving miR-331-5p and Nurr1 that changes during addiction and is modified by the treatment.

  • The study uses rat models of ketamine addiction, not human patients.
  • Rhynchophylline alters miRNA expression in the hippocampus of addicted rats.
  • miR-331-5p negatively regulates Nurr1 protein levels in this context.
  • Nurr1 is a transcription factor, but this paper focuses on addiction mechanisms.
  • No clinical data or direct relevance to NR4A2-related developmental syndromes is presented.
low2018-02-20 · Pharmacognosy magazine

Rhynchophylline Downregulates Phosphorylated cAMP Response Element Binding Protein, Nuclear Receptor-related-1, and Brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor Expression in the Hippocampus of Ketamine-induced Conditioned Place Preference Rats.

Guo Y, Luo C, Tu G, Li C, Liu Y, Liu W, Lam Yung KK, Mo Z

Rhynchophylline, a plant-derived alkaloid, reverses ketamine-induced behavioral changes in rats by normalizing hippocampal levels of Nurr1, p-CREB, and BDNF. This preclinical study suggests that modulating these specific proteins may mitigate drug reward pathways.

  • Rhynchophylline reduces ketamine-seeking behavior in a rat model of addiction.
  • The treatment restores hippocampal Nurr1 levels altered by ketamine exposure.
  • Nurr1, p-CREB, and BDNF are key molecular targets in this mechanism.
  • Findings are limited to animal models with no human clinical data.
low2018-02-15 · Cell death discovery

NR4A2 protects cardiomyocytes against myocardial infarction injury by promoting autophagy.

Liu H, Liu P, Shi X, Yin D, Zhao J

NR4A2 helps protect heart cells after a heart attack by boosting autophagy, a process that clears out damaged components. Lower NR4A2 levels increase cell death, while increasing NR4A2 reduces damage, suggesting it could be a target for treating heart failure.

  • NR4A2 protects heart cells after a heart attack
  • NR4A2 boosts autophagy to reduce cell death
  • Low NR4A2 leads to more heart damage
  • NR4A2 blocks p53/Bax, a key cell death pathway
  • miR-212-3p reduces NR4A2 levels
low2018-02-09 · Genes & development

Three-step transcriptional priming that drives the commitment of multipotent progenitors toward B cells.

Miyai T, Takano J, Endo TA, Kawakami E, Agata Y, Motomura Y, Kubo M, Kashima Y, Suzuki Y, Kawamoto H, Ikawa T

This study identifies Nr4a2 as a critical early factor required for the development of B cells in the immune system. It demonstrates that Nr4a2 acts in a three-step process to prime multipotent progenitor cells before they commit to becoming B lymphocytes.

  • Nr4a2 is an immediate early gene essential for B-cell lineage commitment.
  • Inhibiting Nr4a2 severely impairs the generation of B cells in vitro.
  • The research maps a three-step transcriptional circuit driving immune cell development.
  • Findings provide a blueprint for understanding normal and cancerous B-lymphocyte growth.
low2018-02-05 · Molecular neurobiology

Conserved Upstream Regulatory Regions in Mammalian Tyrosine Hydroxylase.

Wang M, Fones L, Cave JW

This study identifies five conserved DNA regions upstream of the Tyrosine Hydroxylase gene that help control its expression in catecholamine-producing neurons. It confirms that NURR1 (NR4A2) and other transcription factors bind to these regions, while also discovering a new regulatory role for the CTCF protein in the forebrain.

  • Five conserved DNA regions upstream of the Tyrosine Hydroxylase gene regulate its expression.
  • NURR1 binds to these conserved regions to help control neuron-specific gene activity.
  • CTCF is identified as a novel regulator of Tyrosine Hydroxylase transcription in the forebrain.
  • The research maps the genomic architecture controlling key enzymes in dopamine production.
low2018-02-04 · Nutrients

Bioactive Dietary VDR Ligands Regulate Genes Encoding Biomarkers of Skin Repair That Are Associated with Risk for Psoriasis.

Karrys A, Rady I, Chamcheu RN, Sabir MS, Mallick S, Chamcheu JC, Jurutka PW, Haussler MR, Whitfield GK

This study investigates how dietary compounds DHA and curcumin influence skin repair genes in human keratinocytes, noting that they modulate the transcription factor NR4A2/NURR1. The research focuses on psoriasis mechanisms and does not provide evidence regarding NR4A2-related syndromes or their treatment.

  • DHA and curcumin activate skin repair genes in human keratinocytes with specific genetic deletions.
  • These compounds reduce inflammation markers by opposing TNF-alpha signaling pathways.
  • NR4A2/NURR1 is identified as a transcription factor modulated by these dietary ligands.
  • The findings relate to psoriasis treatment mechanisms, not NR4A2 syndrome pathology.
low2018-02-02 · Gene

Identification of key microRNAs, transcription factors and genes associated with congenital obstructive nephropathy in a mouse model of megabladder.

Xin G, Chen R, Zhang X

This study identifies specific microRNAs and transcription factors, including NR4A2, that regulate gene networks in a mouse model of congenital kidney obstruction. The findings highlight molecular pathways involving Vegfa, Pten, and Kras that may contribute to the development of this condition.

  • Researchers analyzed kidney tissue from mice with megabladder to find molecular causes of obstruction.
  • Three key microRNAs were identified as regulators in the affected kidney tissue.
  • NR4A2 is part of a regulatory network targeting Vegfa in this mouse model.
  • The study focuses on congenital obstructive nephropathy, not NR4A2-related neurological syndromes.
  • Results are based on preclinical animal data with no human clinical application.
low2018-02-01 · Oncotarget

Regulatory effects of Nr4a2 on Th2 cells from patients with pemphigus vulgaris.

Chen J, Zhang Y, Liang Y, Zhao M, Long H, Xiao R, Wu H, Liao J, Luo S, Zhang G, Lu Q

In people with pemphigus vulgaris, a rare autoimmune skin disease, levels of the NR4A2 protein in immune cells are lower than normal, and this drop is linked to increased activity of Th2 cells and harmful immune signals. Boosting NR4A2 reduces these harmful immune responses, suggesting it helps control the disease.

  • NR4A2 levels are low in immune cells of pemphigus patients
  • Low NR4A2 links to overactive Th2 immune cells
  • Increasing NR4A2 reduces harmful immune signals
  • NR4A2 may help control autoimmune skin disease
low2018-01-19 · Journal of cellular physiology

microRNA-137 promotes endothelial progenitor cell proliferation and angiogenesis in cerebral ischemic stroke mice by targeting NR4A2 through the Notch pathway.

Liu XL, Wang G, Song W, Yang WX, Hua J, Lyu L

This study shows that miR-137 promotes blood vessel growth in mouse brains after stroke by suppressing the NR4A2 gene. It establishes a molecular link between NR4A2, the Notch pathway, and endothelial cell survival in an ischemic model.

  • NR4A2 levels are elevated in mouse brain tissue following cerebral ischemic stroke.
  • miR-137 suppresses NR4A2 to enhance endothelial progenitor cell proliferation.
  • The mechanism involves modulation of the Notch signaling pathway components.
  • Restoring miR-137 or silencing NR4A2 reduces apoptosis in damaged cells.
low2018-01-01 · Journal of Alzheimer's disease : JAD

Pink1 Regulates Tyrosine Hydroxylase Expression and Dopamine Synthesis.

Lu L, Jia H, Gao G, Duan C, Ren J, Li Y, Yang H

This study identifies a molecular pathway where the PINK1 protein regulates dopamine production by controlling the activity of Nurr1, the transcription factor encoded by NR4A2. While it confirms that Nurr1 is essential for synthesizing tyrosine hydroxylase, the findings are derived from cell cultures and do not provide direct evidence for treating NR4A2-related syndromes in humans.

  • PINK1 deficiency reduces dopamine by suppressing tyrosine hydroxylase expression.
  • Nurr1 (NR4A2) activity is required for normal tyrosine hydroxylase levels.
  • Research relies on dopaminergic cell lines, not human patients or animal models.
  • No clinical data or treatment implications for NR4A2 syndrome are presented.
low2017-12-21 · Scientific reports

CRTC1 mediates preferential transcription at neuronal activity-regulated CRE/TATA promoters.

Parra-Damas A, Rubió-Ferrarons L, Shen J, Saura CA

Neuronal activity triggers the recruitment of the coactivator CRTC1 to specific gene promoters, including NR4A2, to drive their expression. This mechanism explains how brain signals selectively activate NR4A2 and related genes through a physical interaction with CREB at TATA-containing promoter regions.

  • CRTC1 binds to NR4A2 promoters only when neurons are active.
  • CREB stays bound to NR4A2 DNA regardless of neuronal activity.
  • Activity causes CRTC1 to move into the nucleus and join CREB.
  • This complex formation initiates transcription of NR4A2 and similar genes.
low2017-12-21 · Experimental and therapeutic medicine

Differential microRNA expression in the prefrontal cortex of mouse offspring induced by glyphosate exposure during pregnancy and lactation.

Ji H, Xu L, Wang Z, Fan X, Wu L

Glyphosate exposure during pregnancy and lactation alters microRNA expression in the developing mouse brain, specifically downregulating Nr4a2. These changes disrupt Wnt and Notch signaling pathways critical for normal neural development.

  • Glyphosate exposure reduces Nr4a2 levels in the prefrontal cortex of mouse offspring.
  • The study identifies disruptions in Wnt and Notch signaling pathways.
  • These findings link environmental toxins to potential neurodevelopmental mechanisms.
  • Research relies entirely on animal models, not human data.
low2017-12-09 · Oncotarget

Liver X receptors agonist promotes differentiation of rat bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells into dopaminergic neuron-like cells.

Cheng O, Tian X, Luo Y, Mai S, Yang Y, Kuang S, Chen Q, Ma J, Chen B, Li R, Yang L, Li H, Hu C, Zhang J, Chen Z, Li Y, Xia H, Xu Y, Yang J

This study shows that activating liver X receptors in rat stem cells increases the efficiency of converting them into dopamine-producing neuron-like cells. The findings suggest this pathway could help optimize cell replacement therapies for Parkinson's disease.

  • LXR agonists boost the conversion rate of rat stem cells into dopamine neurons.
  • The treatment shortens the time required for cellular differentiation in vitro.
  • Results rely on rat models, not human clinical data.
  • This research focuses on Parkinson's disease mechanisms, not NR4A2 syndrome.
low2017-12-08 · Epigenetics & chromatin

A screening system to identify transcription factors that induce binding site-directed DNA demethylation.

Suzuki T, Maeda S, Furuhata E, Shimizu Y, Nishimura H, Kishima M, Suzuki H

This study establishes a screening method to identify transcription factors that cause site-specific DNA demethylation and confirms that NR4A2 performs this function in cell models. The research demonstrates that NR4A2 actively removes methyl groups from specific genomic regions associated with its biological roles, such as cellular differentiation.

  • Researchers developed a new screening system to find transcription factors that direct DNA demethylation.
  • The study identifies eight novel transcription factors, including NR4A2, that induce binding site-directed demethylation.
  • NR4A2 targets highly methylated CpG sites for local demethylation in model cells.
  • Demethylated regions identified by NR4A2 overlap with those of other family members.
  • The findings describe the molecular mechanism of NR4A2 but do not test treatments or human outcomes.
low2017-11-21 · Frontiers in molecular neuroscience

miR-145-5p/Nurr1/TNF-α Signaling-Induced Microglia Activation Regulates Neuron Injury of Acute Cerebral Ischemic/Reperfusion in Rats.

Xie X, Peng L, Zhu J, Zhou Y, Li L, Chen Y, Yu S, Zhao Y

This rat study shows that blocking a specific microRNA (miR-145-5p) increases Nurr1 levels in brain immune cells, which reduces inflammation and protects neurons from stroke damage. The treatment improved neurological outcomes in the animal model by interrupting a harmful signaling pathway involving TNF-α.

  • Blocking miR-145-5p raises Nurr1 levels in rat microglia during acute brain injury.
  • Higher Nurr1 suppresses inflammatory TNF-α, reducing neuron death after stroke.
  • Treatment decreased infarct size and improved neurological function in rats.
  • This is preclinical animal research with no human clinical data.
low2017-11-16 · PloS one

Long 3'UTR of Nurr1 mRNAs is targeted by miRNAs in mesencephalic dopamine neurons.

Pereira LA, Munita R, González MP, Andrés ME

This study identifies specific microRNAs that regulate the levels of Nurr1 protein in rat dopamine neurons by targeting a long variant of its mRNA. The findings demonstrate a mechanism for fine-tuning Nurr1 expression, which is critical for neuron survival and development.

  • Researchers identified a long 3'UTR variant of rat Nurr1 mRNA.
  • MicroRNAs miR-93, miR-204, and miR-302d target this specific variant.
  • These microRNAs significantly reduce Nurr1 protein levels in neurons.
  • The study uses rat models and cell culture techniques.
  • No human data or clinical treatment implications are presented.
low2017-11-01 · Frontiers in molecular neuroscience

Tcf12 Is Involved in Early Cell-Fate Determination and Subset Specification of Midbrain Dopamine Neurons.

Mesman S, Smidt MP

This study identifies Tcf12 as a critical regulator for the early development and subset specification of midbrain dopamine neurons in mice. Loss of Tcf12 during early embryonic stages disrupts the spatial expression of key developmental markers like Nurr1 and leads to a significant reduction in dopamine-producing neurons.

  • Tcf12 regulates early cell-fate commitment of neural progenitors in the midbrain.
  • Early loss of Tcf12 reduces rostral tyrosine hydroxylase expression in mice.
  • Tcf12 also influences late-stage subset specification of dopamine neurons.
  • The study uses mouse embryos to map these developmental mechanisms.
low2017-11-01 · Proteomics

A Bioinformatic Algorithm for Analyzing Cell Signaling Using Temporal Proteomic Data.

Zhang C, Chen Y, Mao X, Huang Y, Jung SY, Jain A, Qin J, Wang Y

This paper presents a statistical algorithm for analyzing proteomic data, using HeLa cells to identify transcription factors influenced by the drug gefitinib. NR4A2 appears only as one of several known responders in this cancer cell line study, with no focus on neurological function or human patients.

  • The study uses a bioinformatic algorithm to analyze temporal proteomic data from HeLa cells.
  • NR4A2 is identified as a known responder to EGF signaling in these cancer cells.
  • Research focuses on gefitinib targets and ErbB pathway inhibition in oncology.
  • No human clinical data, animal models of NR4A2 syndrome, or dopaminergic mechanisms are included.