Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor-Review

Peroxisomes are subcellular organelles found in most plant and animal cells that perform diverse metabolic functions including hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-based respiration, β-oxidation of fatty acids (FAs), and cholesterol metabolism. Peroxisomes are found in most eukaryotic cells, and their essential role has been emphasized by the discoveries of several human disorders caused by the lack of peroxisomes. Peroxisomes are unique for their ability to proliferate in response to several structurally different chemicals, which are designated "peroxisome proliferators (PPs)," in rodent liver cells. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) proteins belong to the superfamily of a phylogenetically related protein termed nuclear hormone factor. Activation of PPAR-α reduces triglyceride level and is involved in regulation of energy homeostasis. Activation of PPAR-γ causes insulin sensitization and enhances glucose metabolism, whereas activation of PPAR-β/δ enhances fatty acids metabolism. Thus, PPAR family of nuclear receptors plays a major regulatory role in energy homeostasis and metabolic function. Since intervention of PPAR agonist can provide therapeutic targets for a range of diseases such as dyslipidemia, diabetes, obesity, inflammation, a neurodegenerative disorder, and cancer, this review was carried out to update existing knowledge on these nuclear receptors.