The Mediator Complex: A Regulatory Hub for Transcriptional Activity of Nuclear Receptors

The Mediator complex plays a key role in gene transcription. In particular, the interaction of the Mediator complex with nuclear receptors, the known transcription factors, regulates multiple nuclear receptor-mediated gene transcription pathways and associated cellular functions. Dysregulation of the interaction of the Mediator complex with nuclear receptors results in many pathological processes, such as cancer, metabolic and neuronal diseases. Thus, understanding of the mechanism by which the Mediator complex regulates the nuclear receptor-mediated transcriptional activity and biological function is crucial for therapy of both the Mediator complex- and nuclear receptor-associated diseases. In this review article, we attempt to summarize current research progress in the interaction of the Mediator complex with nuclear receptors and the associated nuclear receptor transcriptional signaling pathways, explore the clinical potential of the Mediator complex as a therapeutic target, and provide new perspectives for the treatment of diseases associated with the Mediator complex and nuclear receptors.