The role of PPAR-γ and its interaction with COX-2 in pancreatic cancer

Abstract

In recent years, the study of the peroxisome proliferators activated receptor gamma (PPAR- γ) as a potential target for cancer prevention and therapy has gained a strong interest. However, the overall biological significance of PPAR- γ in cancer development and progression is still controversial. While many reports documented antiproliferative effects in human cancer cell and animal models, several studies demonstrating potential tumor promoting actions of PPAR- γ ligands raised considerable concerns about the role of PPAR- γ in human cancers. Controversy also exists about the role of PPAR- γ in human pancreatic cancers. The current review summarizes the data about PPAR- γ in pancreatic cancer and highlights the biologically relevant interactions between the cyclooxygenase and PPAR system. Copyright © 2008 Guido Eibl.