Peroxisome proliferator-activator receptor γ and psoriasis, molecular and cellular biochemistry

The pathophysiology of psoriasis is complex and has not been completely elucidated. Better understanding of the pathogenesis may contribute to further improvement of our therapeutic strategies controlling psoriasis. Emerging evidence points to a causative relationship between altered activity of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR gamma) and psoriasis. The present review focuses on deeper understanding of the possible role of PPAR gamma in the pathogenesis of psoriasis and the potential of PPAR gamma agonist to improve the treatment of psoriasis. PPAR gamma is decreased in psoriasis. PPAR gamma possibly has effects on the multiple aspects of the pathogenesis of psoriasis, including abnormal lipid metabolism, insulin resistance, immune cells, pro-inflammatory cytokines, keratinocytes, angiogenesis, oxidative stress, microRNAs and nuclear factor kappa B. As defective activation of PPAR gamma is involved in psoriasis development, PPAR gamma agonists may be promising agents for treatment of psoriasis. Pioglitazone appears an effective and safe option in the treatment of patients with psoriasis, but there are still concerns about its potential side effects. Research effort has recently been undertaken to explore the PPAR gamma-activating potential of natural products. Among them some have been studied clinically or preclinically for treatment of psoriasis with promising results.

Automated summary

The pathophysiology of psoriasis is complex and not fully understood. Recent evidence suggests a potential causative relationship between altered peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) activity and psoriasis. PPARγ is involved in various aspects of psoriasis pathogenesis, making PPARγ agonists a promising option for treatment. However, potential side effects of these agonists need to be considered.