Retinoids in clinical use.

Retinoids have been investigated for their therapeutic potential for the past 3 decades. They have a reputation for being both beneficial in the treatment of several diseases and detrimental due to toxic and/or teratogenic side effects. The purpose of this review is to highlight retinoids that are currently used in the clinic. We also discuss their mechanisms of action and research strategies to develop new and safer retinoid-based therapies.