The elusive endogenous adipogenic PPARγ agonists: Lining up the suspects

The nuclear receptor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) is the key decisive factor controlling the development of adipocytes. Ligand-mediated activation of PPARγ occurs early during adipogenesis and is thought to prime adipose conversion. Although several fatty acids and their derivatives are known to bind to and activate PPARγ, the identity of the ligand(s) responsible for initiating adipocyte differentiation is still a matter of debate. Here we review recent data on pathways involved in ligand production as well as possible endogenous, adipogenic PPARγ agonists.