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== Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma ==

'''Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma''' ('''PPARγ''' or '''PPARG'''), also known as the '''glitazone receptor''', is a type of [[nuclear receptor]] that is of major interest in biology and medicine. Pronounced as "per-oxi-some pro-lif-er-ator-acti-vated receptor gamma", it is a member of the [[nuclear receptor]] superfamily of ligand-activated transcription factors.

=== Etymology ===

The term "peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma" is derived from its function and location. "Peroxisome" refers to the cell organelle where it is located, "proliferator-activated" refers to its activation in response to the presence of certain chemicals, and "receptor" refers to its function as a protein that binds to specific molecules, while "gamma" is used to differentiate it from other similar receptors.

=== Function ===

PPARγ plays a key role in [[adipogenesis]], the process of fat cell development, and in the regulation of [[glucose]] and [[lipid]] metabolism. It is activated by [[ligands]] such as prostaglandin J2 and pioglitazone, a drug used in the treatment of [[type 2 diabetes]].

=== Related Terms ===

* [[Adipogenesis]]: The process of fat cell development.
* [[Glucose]]: A simple sugar that is an important energy source in living organisms.
* [[Lipid]]: Any of various substances that are soluble in nonpolar organic solvents, that with proteins and carbohydrates constitute the principal structural components of living cells.
* [[Type 2 diabetes]]: A chronic condition that affects the way the body processes blood sugar (glucose).
* [[Nuclear receptor]]: A class of proteins found within cells that are responsible for sensing steroid and thyroid hormones and certain other molecules.

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[[Category:Medical Dictionary]]
[[Category:Biology]]
[[Category:Medicine]]