Estrogen related receptor alpha (ERRα) is a nuclear receptor in the superfamily of ligand-regulated transcription factors and is a member of the NR3B orphan nuclear receptor subgroup (consisting of α, β and γ). ERRα plays a role in modulating the estrogen signaling pathway. In addition, the expression of ERRα has been shown to increase during fasting and cold exposure. ERRα may be important for regulating mitochondrial biogenesis and oxidative metabolism by acting directly on genes necessary for mitochondrial function. Mice lacking ERRα are unable to maintain their body temperature in the cold. ERRα may also be involved in the maintenance and formation of cartilage. This information could be useful in finding therapeutic agents for a variety of diseases affecting the joints.
