Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-Î3) and its effects on the Cardiovascular system

Cardiovascular disease is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. Studying the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease is, therefore, essential for the possible alleviation of such cases. Further knowledge could lead to more effective drug treatment. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) is a nuclear receptor found in vascular-associated cells such as endothelial cells, macrophages, and vascular smooth muscle cells. Its role in cardiovascular pathogenesis has garnered great interest in recent years. Nonsense mutation studies show that PPAR-γ is essential for normal vascular function. Some studies even suggest that increased activation of PPAR-γ improves vascular function in dysfunctional states such as hypertension. However, some studies question PPAR-γ’s role and even suggest that it may play a negative role in some cardiovascular diseases, such as atherosclerosis. The overall evidence currently suggests that PPAR-γ is a potential target for agonists in combating cardiovascular disease, yet it is still unclear whether or not PPAR-γ has potentially negative effects on cardiovascular health when it is up-regulated. Document Type Capstone Project Degree Name Bachelor of Science