Neuroprotective Mechanisms of PPARδ: Modulation of Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Processes

Abstract

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARα,δ, andγ) are ligand-activated transcription factors that regulate a wide range of cellular processes, including inflammation, proliferation, differentiation, metabolism, and energy homeostasis. All three PPAR subtypes have been identified in the central nervous system (CNS) of rodents. While PPARαand PPARγare expressed in more restricted areas of the CNS, PPARδis ubiquitously expressed and is the predominant subtype. Although data regarding PPARδare limited, studies have demonstrated that administration of PPARδagonists confers neuroprotection following various acute and chronic injuries to the CNS, such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer's disease. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of PPARδagonists are thought to underly their neuroprotective efficacy. This review will focus on the putative neuroprotective benefits of therapeutically targeting PPARδin the CNS, and specifically, highlight the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory functions of PPARδagonists.