PPARs: modulating lipotoxicity and thus inhibiting fibrosis

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) belong to the nuclear hormone receptor family of ligand-activated receptors and are known for their roles as key factors in the regulation of lipid metabolism. In the more than three decades since their discovery, most reports on PPARs have focused on their roles in lipid metabolism, and a portion of the new research has also focused on the relationship between PPARs and fibrosis. Interestingly, lipid metabolism disorders and fibrosis are also inextricably linked. This implies that PPARs, lipid metabolism and fibrosis are interrelated. On this basis, we have summarized the molecular mechanisms of PPARs regulating fibrosis through lipid metabolism and PPARγ directly regulating fibrosis, and pointed out the contradictions and enigmas that need to be further explored in the processes of PPARs regulating lipid metabolism and fibrosis. The aim of the present review is to provide new ideas for PPARs for the treatment of lipid metabolism disorders and fibrosis.