The α, β, γ’s of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors

3d image of the cell membrane showing nuclear receptor proteins.

PPAR beta/delta is expressed in multiple tissues, including skeletal muscle and adipose tissue, and is involved in fatty acid metabolism and energy expenditure. PPAR gamma is primarily expressed in adipose tissue and plays a key role in adipocyte differentiation and glucose uptake. PPARs are activated by endogenous ligands such as fatty acids and eicosanoids, as well as exogenous ligands such as thiazolidinediones (TZDs), a class of drugs used to treat type 2 diabetes. Activation of PPARs leads to the upregulation of genes involved in fatty acid metabolism, glucose uptake, and inflammation.

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