[PPARs and cell-cell or cell-extracellular matrix interactions]. / PPAR et interactions des cellules entre elles ou avec la matrice extracellulaire.

ABSTRACT

The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are transcription factors and belong to the superfamily of nuclear receptors. They are encoded by three genes located on different chromosomes PPARalpha, PPARbeta/delta and PPARgamma. PPARalpha plays a key role in the control of lipid metabolism and homeostasis. PPARbeta/delta is expressed ubiquitously and participates in skeletal muscle physiology. PPARbeta/delta and PPARgamma are important factors for placental development and function as well as for embryo implantation. In addition, PPARgamma is mainly involved in adipogenesis. PPARs also participate more or less to cell proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis. Surprisingly, the involvement of these transcription factors in cell-cell and/or cell-matrix interactions has not yet been reviewed except for their role as therapeutic agents in inflammation. Nevertheless, several pioneer reports have recently provided some new insights in this research field, by suggesting that PPARs are involved, directly or indirectly, in these interactions and that their activation by specific ligands may lead to potential therapeutic approaches.