Abstract

The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) and its partner the retinoid X receptor (RXR) are two nuclear receptors that are expressed mainly in adipose tissue and which have a role in lipid metabolism and insulin sensitization. New sites of PPARγ expression have been described, especially in the intestinal tract. Concomitantly, new functions have been attributed to PPARγ in regulation of inflammation and carcinogenesis. These new functions of PPARγ have led to novel ideas about pathophysiology of inflammatory bowel disease and colon cancer to development of innovative treatment strategies with PPARγ agonist. (Intestinal Research 2004;2:53-57)

• Keywords: PPAR-γ, PPAR-γ agonist, Inflammatory bowel disease, Colon cancerv, PPAR-γ