Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors and progression of colorectal cancer

The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are members of the nuclear hormone receptor superfamily. These receptors are also ligand-dependent transcription factors responsible for the regulation of cellular events that range from glucose and lipid homeostases to cell differentiation and apoptosis. The importance of these receptors in lipid homeostasis and energy balance is well established. In addition to these metabolic and anti-inflammatory properties, emerging evidence indicates that PPARs can function as either tumor suppressors or accelerators, suggesting that these receptors are potential candidates as drug targets for cancer prevention and treatment. However, conflicting results have emerged regarding the role of PPARs on colon carcinogenesis. Therefore, further investigation is warranted prior to considering modulation of PPARs as an efficacious therapy for colorectal cancer chemoprevention and treatment.