Several glycoprocessing enzymes and glycoreceptors have been recognized as important targets for therapeutic intervention. This concept has inspired the development of important classes of therapeutics, such as anti-influenza, anti-inflammatory, Gaucher’s disease, hepatitis and cancer drugs.

Liver X receptors (LXRs) are nuclear receptors that regulate the metabolism of cholesterol and bile acids. LXRs function as nuclear cholesterol sensors that are activated in response to elevated intracellular cholesterol levels in multiple cell types.