Abstract

The development of novel treatments for the metabolic syndrome is imminent for decreasing the prevalence of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are members of the nuclear receptor super-family of ligand-induced transcription factors. Among them, PPAR-alpha and PPAR-gamma are therapeutic targets for dyslipidemia and insulin resistance. Recent studies have uncovered a dual benefit of PPAR-delta for both dyslipidemia and insulin resistance. Furthermore, PPAR-delta enhances fatty acid oxidation and energy uncoupling in adipose tissue and muscle. PPAR-delta activation seems to operate similarly to the caloric restriction and prolonged exercise. Combined effects of PPAR-delta make it a promising therapeutic target for the metabolic syndrome, and ongoing studies about PPAR-delta will improve our knowledge of the physiologic regulation of whole body energy metabolism.