Arq Bras Endocrinol Metab 2007;51(4):526-533
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARgamma): molecular study in glucose homeostasis, lipid metabolism and therapeutic approach
DOI: 10.1590/S0004-27302007000400005
The peroxisome proliferators-activated receptors (PPARs) are transcription factors belonging to the family of nuclear receptors that regulate glucose homeostasis, lipid metabolism and inflammation. Three proteins, encoded by distinct genes, have been identified: PPARa, PPARb and PPARg, which control gene expression by binding to specific response elements (PPREs) in the promoters. Recent studies suggest that activation of PPARg might decrease atherosclerosis progression and increase the insulin sensitivity, might be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of a diverse array of disorders, including type 2 diabetes and dyslipidaemia. This review highlights recent studies, which have advanced our understanding of the pivotal role that this receptor plays in metabolism, with particular reference to the molecular mechanisms and therapeutic efficacy.