Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor
The Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) (pronounced: peh-rok-si-sohm pro-lih-feh-ray-ted reh-sep-tor) is a group of nuclear receptor proteins that function as transcription factors regulating the expression of genes.
Etymology
The term "Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor" is derived from its discovery, where it was found to be activated by chemicals that induce proliferation of peroxisomes in cells.
Types
PPARs are classified into three types:
- PPAR alpha (PPARα)
- PPAR gamma (PPARγ)
- PPAR delta (PPARδ or PPARβ)
Each type is encoded by a different gene and has different functions.
Function
PPARs play essential roles in the regulation of cellular differentiation, development, and metabolism (carbohydrate, lipid, protein), and tumorigenesis of higher organisms.
Related Terms
- Nuclear receptor: A class of proteins found within cells that are responsible for sensing steroid and thyroid hormones and certain other molecules.
- Transcription factor: A protein that controls the rate of transcription of genetic information from DNA to messenger RNA, by binding to a specific DNA sequence.
- Gene expression: The process by which information from a gene is used in the synthesis of a functional gene product.
- Peroxisome: A type of organelle known for its role in the oxidation of long chain fatty acids.
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