Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor (PPAR) Gamma Agonists as Therapeutic Agents for Cardiovascular Disorders: Focus on Atherosclerosis

Peroxisome proliferation-activated receptors (PPARs) are ligand-activated transcription factors that mainly regulate genes responsible for fatty acid (FA) and energy metabolism. There are three members of the PPAR family, PPAR-alpha, PPAR-beta/delta and PPAR-gamma All three isoforms have therapeutic potential for treatment of cardiovascular disorders, and PPAR agonists are currently being actively studied in pre-clinical and clinical trials. PPAR. agonists, main tissue expressing isoform, have potential to influence on inflammation processes, reduce oxidative stress, improve endothelial function and plays an important role in lipid metabolism. PPAR-gamma agonists are used as insulin sensitizers for treatment of diabetes; however, there is accumulating evidence that their clinical application can be broadened. The wide spectrum of PPAR-gamma activation effects may be beneficial for treatment of various cardiovascular conditions as atherosclerosis, hypertension and aortic aneurysm, including surgical interventions. In this Review we will discuss the implication of PPAR-gamma in the cardiovascular system and potential role of PPAR-. agonists in treatment of conditions associated with high cardiovascular risks.