Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) has been characterized as a regulator of adipocyte differentiation and lipid metabolism. However, in the last few years growing evidence indicates that PPARγ plays an important role in controlling immune and inflammatory responses. Upregulation of PPARγ expression is observed in asthmatic airways, and an involvement of PPARγ in airway inflammation and airway hyperresponsiveness in asthma has been reported. Recent studies have demonstrated that PPARγ ligands may have a therapeutic effect in asthma. This article reviews the latest knowledge and studies on the roles and mechanisms of PPARγ and PPARγ ligands in asthma.