Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ or PPARG), also known as the glitazone receptor, is a type of nuclear receptor that is of major interest in biology and medicine. Pronounced as "per-oxi-some pro-lif-er-ator-acti-vated receptor gamma", it is a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily of ligand-activated transcription factors.
Etymology
The term "peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma" is derived from its function and location. "Peroxisome" refers to the cell organelle where it is located, "proliferator-activated" refers to its activation in response to the presence of certain chemicals, and "receptor" refers to its function as a protein that binds to specific molecules, while "gamma" is used to differentiate it from other similar receptors.
Function
PPARγ plays a key role in adipogenesis, the process of fat cell development, and in the regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism. It is activated by ligands such as prostaglandin J2 and pioglitazone, a drug used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
Related Terms
- Adipogenesis: The process of fat cell development.
- Glucose: A simple sugar that is an important energy source in living organisms.
- Lipid: Any of various substances that are soluble in nonpolar organic solvents, that with proteins and carbohydrates constitute the principal structural components of living cells.
- Type 2 diabetes: A chronic condition that affects the way the body processes blood sugar (glucose).
- Nuclear receptor: A class of proteins found within cells that are responsible for sensing steroid and thyroid hormones and certain other molecules.
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