Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) (PPARG)

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) is a ligand-activated transcription factor and a member of the nuclear hormone receptor superfamily [UniProt: P37231]. It serves as a master regulator of adipogenesis and plays a critical role in lipid metabolism and glucose homeostasis by enhancing insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues [PubMed: 12172054]. Beyond its metabolic functions, PPARγ is deeply involved in the regulation of cell growth and survival, specifically modulating proliferative and antiapoptotic pathways [PubMed: 11060344]. In various cancers, PPARγ activation can induce cell cycle arrest and apoptosis by downregulating cyclin D1 and upregulating pro-apoptotic proteins, making it a target of interest for oncology [PubMed: 15155836]. Pharmacologically, PPARγ is the primary target for thiazolidinediones, such as pioglitazone, which are used to treat type 2 diabetes [StatPearls: NBK551656]. However, therapeutic use is often limited by side effects such as weight gain, edema, and potential cardiovascular risks [NIH: PMC3131903].

Other names

PPAR-gammaNR1C3Nuclear receptor subfamily 1 group C member 3Glitazone receptorPPARgamma

PPARγ acts as a ligand-activated transcription factor that heterodimerizes with the Retinoid X Receptor (RXR) to bind Peroxisome Proliferator Response Elements (PPREs), thereby regulating the expression of genes involved in lipid metabolism, glucose homeostasis, and cell cycle control [UniProt: P37231, PubMed: 12172054].