PPAR-γ: therapeutic target for ischemic stroke

The peroxisome proliferator activated receptors (PPARs), which belong to the nuclear receptor superfamily, are key regulators of glucose and fat metabolism. The PPAR-γ isoform is involved in the regulation of cellular glucose uptake, protection against atherosclerosis and control of immune reactions. In addition, the activation of PPAR-γ effectively attenuates neurodegenerative and inflammatory processes in the brain. Here, we review a novel aspect of beneficial and clinically relevant PPAR-γ actions: neuroprotection against ischemic injury mediated by intracerebral PPAR-γ, which is expressed in neurons and microglia. Together with the recent observation that the PPAR-γ ligand pioglitazone reduces the incidence of stroke in patients with type 2 diabetes, this review supports the concept that activators of PPAR-γ are effective drugs against ischemic injury.