Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor β/δ in the brain: Facts and hypothesis

Abstract

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are nuclear receptors acting as lipid sensors. Besides its metabolic activity in peripheral organs, the PPAR beta/delta isotype is highly expressed in the brain and its deletion in mice induces a brain developmental defect. Nevertheless, exploration of PPAR β action in the central nervous system remains sketchy. The lipid content alteration observed in PPAR β null brains and the positive action of PPAR β agonists on oligodendrocyte differentiation, a process characterized by lipid accumulation, suggest that PPAR β acts on the fatty acids and/or cholesterol metabolisms in the brain. PPAR β could also regulate central inflammation and antioxidant mechanisms in the damaged brain. Even if not fully understood, the neuroprotective effect of PPAR β agonists highlights their potential benefit to treat various acute or chronic neurological disorders. In this perspective, we need to better understand the basic function of PPAR β in the brain. This review proposes different leads for future researches. Copyright © 2008 M. G. Hall et al.