Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) belongs to the ligand-activated nuclear receptor 
superfamily, and functions as a transcription factor regulating the 
transcription of numerous genes involved in bile acid homeostasis, lipoprotein 
and glucose metabolism. In the present study, we identified RECK, a 
membrane-anchored inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases, as a novel target gene 
of FXR in mouse liver. We found that FXR agonist substantially augmented hepatic 
RECK mRNA and protein expression in vivo and in vitro. FXR regulated the 
transcription of RECK through directly binding to FXR response element located 
within intron 1 of the mouse RECK gene. Moreover, FXR agonist reversed the 
down-regulation of RECK in the livers from mice fed a methionine and choline 
deficient diet. In summary, our data suggest that RECK is a novel 
transcriptional target of FXR in mouse liver, and provide clues to better 
understanding the function of FXR in liver.