PPARγ as a therapeutic target in diabetic nephropathy and other renal diseases

Purpose of Review: Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) is a ligand-activated nuclear transcription factor that regulates many important physiological processes including glucose and lipid metabolism, energy homeostasis, cell proliferation, inflammation, immunity and reproduction. The current review aims to summarize and discuss recent findings evaluating the protective effects of PPARγ against kidney diseases with a focus on diabetic nephropathy. We will also delineate the potential underlying mechanisms. Recent Findings: PPARγ plays important roles in renal physiology and pathophysiology. Agonists of PPARγ exert protective effects against various kidney diseases including diabetic nephropathy, ischemic renal injury, IgA nephropathy, chemotherapy-associated kidney damage, polycystic kidney diseases and age-related kidney diseases via both systemic and renal actions. Summary: PPARγ agonists are effective in delaying and even preventing the progression of many renal diseases, especially diabetic nephropathy. PPARγ may represent a promising target for the treatment of renal diseases.