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Updated: May 16, 2026

Comprehensive Evaluation of the Effectiveness and Safety of Placenta-Targeted Drug Delivery Using Three Complementary Methods
Published on: September 10, 2018
PPAR-γ -- a possible drug target for complicated pregnancies
Fergus P McCarthy1, Aoife C Delany, Louise C Kenny
1Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Anu Research Centre, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
Peroxisome proliferator activated receptors-gamma (PPAR-γ) are crucial for healthy pregnancy and placental development. Altered PPAR-γ expression is linked to pregnancy complications, suggesting its therapeutic potential.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Molecular endocrinology
- Genetics
Background:
- Peroxisome proliferator activated receptors (PPARs) are ligand-activated transcription factors.
- PPARs are expressed in trophoblasts and regulate cell differentiation and proliferation.
- PPAR-β and PPAR-γ play integral roles in placentation and trophoblast differentiation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of PPAR-γ in normal pregnancy.
- To assess PPAR-γ's involvement in pregnancy complications.
- To explore PPAR-γ as a potential therapeutic target for adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Literature review
- Synthesis of existing research on PPAR-γ and pregnancy
Main Results:
- PPAR-γ regulates trophoblast differentiation and is vital for normal pregnancy.
- Altered PPAR-γ expression is associated with intrauterine growth restriction, preterm birth, pre-eclampsia, and gestational diabetes.
- Evidence suggests PPAR-γ's pivotal role in healthy pregnancy progression.
Conclusions:
- PPAR-γ is essential for normal pregnancy and placental function.
- Dysregulation of PPAR-γ is implicated in various pregnancy complications.
- PPAR-γ represents a promising therapeutic target for preventing and treating adverse pregnancy outcomes.
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