Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor delta

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor delta (PPAR-δ), also known as PPARD, is a protein that in humans is encoded by the PPARD gene. It is a member of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) family, which are nuclear receptor proteins that function as transcription factors regulating the expression of genes.

Function

PPAR-δ is involved in many biological processes, including lipid metabolism, glucose homeostasis, inflammation, and wound healing. It plays a crucial role in the regulation of fatty acid oxidation, energy metabolism, and insulin sensitivity. PPAR-δ activation has been shown to increase HDL cholesterol and decrease triglycerides levels in the blood.

Clinical significance

PPAR-δ has been implicated in several diseases, including obesity, diabetes, atherosclerosis, and cancer. It is a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of metabolic diseases and certain types of cancer. Several PPAR-δ agonists are currently under investigation for their potential therapeutic effects.

Structure

The PPAR-δ protein consists of a DNA-binding domain and a ligand-binding domain. The DNA-binding domain recognizes specific DNA sequences, known as peroxisome proliferator response elements (PPREs), in the promoter region of target genes. The ligand-binding domain binds to specific ligands, leading to the activation of PPAR-δ.

Ligands

Several natural and synthetic ligands have been identified for PPAR-δ. Natural ligands include certain fatty acids and their derivatives. Synthetic ligands include drugs such as GW501516 and L-165041.

See also

• Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor
• PPAR agonist
• PPAR antagonist