Maintenance of Kidney Metabolic Homeostasis by PPAR Gamma

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are a family of nuclear hormone receptors that control the transcription of specific genes by binding to regulatory DNA sequences. Among the three subtypes of PPARs, PPAR gamma modulates a broad range of physiopathological processes, including lipid metabolism, insulin sensitization, cellular differentiation, and cancer. Although predominantly expressed in adipose tissue, PPAR gamma expression is also found in different regions of the kidney and, upon activation, can redirect metabolism. Recent studies have highlighted important roles for PPAR gamma in kidney metabolism, such as lipid and glucose metabolism and renal mineral control. PPAR gamma is also implicated in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and, consequently, in the control of systemic blood pressure. Accordingly, synthetic agonists of PPAR gamma have reno-protective effects both in diabetic and nondiabetic patients. This review focuses on the role of PPAR gamma in renal metabolism as a likely key factor in the maintenance of systemic homeostasis.