PPARs. Peroxisome proliferator activated receptors

Abstract

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are transcriptional factors from the nuclear receptor superfamily. There are three PPAR subtypes, namely PPAR, PPAR/PPAR.
Distribution patterns can be found in any tissue with high fatty acid catabolism activity, including the kidney.
PPARs take part in the regulation of lipid metabolism, in adipogenesis, in glucidic metabolism, in vascular tone and inflammation. Activation in the kidney due to exogenous agonists, especially at PPAR level, causes anti-proliferative, anti-fibrotic, and anti-inflammatory effects capable of modifying the progressive course of both glomerulosclerosis and tubuloinsterstitial fibrosis, particularly in hyperglucemic conditions.
In the human, effects result in a reduced albumin excretion, attenuated renal damage, and function improvement. Presence in collecting ducts, however, favors such collateral effects as hydric retention, edema and, as a result, an increased risk of cardiac insufficiency, to be considered in patients presenting with severe proteinuria or deterioration of their renal function.
Hypolipemiant drugs with PPAR effects such as fibrates and antihyperglycemics PPAR such as agonist thiazolidinediones respectively are currently used in our setting, resulting in an enhancement of therapeutic possibilities as well as an understanding of the physiopathology of diseases as diabetes, obesity, and metabolic syndrome.

How to cite this article:

Zelechower H, Elbert AE. [PPARs. Peroxisome proliferator activated receptors]. Rev Nefrol Dial Traspl. 2009;29(2):74-83.