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Selective Modulators of PPAR-gamma Activity: Molecular Aspects Related to Obesity and Side-Effects
Fang Zhang1, Brian E Lavan, Francine M Gregoire
1Department of Biology, Metabolex Inc., 3876 Bay Center Place, Hayward, CA 94545, USA.
Abstract:
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-gamma) is a key regulator of lipid metabolism and energy balance implicated in the development of insulin resistance and obesity. The identification of putative natural and synthetic ligands and activators of PPAR-gamma has helped to unravel the molecular basis of its function, including molecular details regarding ligand binding, conformational changes of the receptor, and cofactor binding, leading to the emergence of the concept of selective PPAR-gamma modulators (SPPARgammaMs). SPPARgammaMs bind in distinct manners to the ligand-binding pocket of PPAR-gamma, leading to alternative receptor conformations, differential cofactor recruitment/displacement, differential gene expression, and ultimately differential biological responses. Based on this concept, new and improved antidiabetic agents for the treatment of diabetes are in development. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the mechanism of action and biological effects of recently characterized SPPARgammaMs, including metaglidasen/halofenate, PA-082, and the angiotensin receptor antagonists, recently characterized as a new class of SPPARgammaMs.
Insights
Selective PPAR-gamma modulators (SPPARgammaMs) offer new therapeutic avenues for diabetes by selectively targeting the receptor. These modulators induce distinct cellular responses, paving the way for improved antidiabetic agents.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-gamma) regulates lipid metabolism and energy balance, playing a role in insulin resistance and obesity.
- Understanding PPAR-gamma's ligand-binding and cofactor interactions has led to the development of selective modulators (SPPARgammaMs).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the mechanism of action and biological effects of recently identified SPPARgammaMs.
- To highlight the potential of SPPARgammaMs as novel antidiabetic agents.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on PPAR-gamma ligands and modulators.
- Analysis of molecular mechanisms of SPPARgammaM action, including receptor conformation and cofactor recruitment.
- Summary of biological effects and therapeutic potential of characterized SPPARgammaMs.
Main Results:
- SPPARgammaMs exhibit distinct binding modes, leading to varied receptor conformations and differential gene expression.
- This selectivity allows for tailored biological responses, differentiating them from traditional PPAR-gamma activators.
- Recently identified SPPARgammaMs include metaglidasen/halofenate, PA-082, and angiotensin receptor antagonists.
Conclusions:
- SPPARgammaMs represent a promising class of compounds for developing improved antidiabetic therapies.
- Their selective action offers a potential advantage in managing diabetes with fewer side effects.
- Further research into SPPARgammaMs could lead to more effective treatments for metabolic disorders.
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