Pharmacologic implications of peroxisome proliferator activated receptors (PPAR)

Abstract

PPAR are a group of proteins, members of the receptors located within the nucleus. These receptors modulate DNA transcriptional activity by binding to specific response elements on target genes. To date, three main types of PPAR have been identified designed α, δand γthese receptors are involved in the regulation of diferent metabolic processes, being the group of receptors more intensely studied. PPARαare greatly involved in both catabolism of fatty acids and transport of extracellular lipids; fibrates, their agonists, are of proved usefulness in some dyslipidemias. Thiazolidinediones used as antihyperglicemiant agents are PPARγagonists, but their relationship with carbohydrate metabolism is not yet clear; nevertheless, their use in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus is of increasing importance. On the other hand, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents are somehow related with PPARδfunctions; up to date a molecular and epidemiologic relationship of these drugs and receptors with colon cancer has been established.