[PPARgamma and atheroma]

PPARs (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors) are members of the nuclear receptor family. They regulate the transcription of target genes involved in lipid and lipoprotein metabolism, glucose homeostasis and cell differentiation (particularly adipogenesis). Recent studies have clearly shown a role for PPARs in the arterial wall, where they interact with several processes involved in the development and progression of atherosclerosis, particularly with respect to macrophage foam cell formation and the transcriptional regulation of genes mediating the inflammatory response.