The potential role of peroxisome proliferator–activated receptors on inflammation in type 2 diabetes mellitus and atherosclerosis

Increasing attention has focused on the role of inflammation in various chronic diseases, including atherosclerosis. Recent compelling data have begun to unite work from various arenas, such as epidemiology and vascular biology, and even clinical trials to provide evidence for inflammation as a mechanism underlying cardiovascular disease. Inflammation has been implicated in the pathogenesis, progression, and complications of both atherosclerosis and diabetes mellitus—2 complex disorders often found intertwined in patients. Although this story continues to evolve, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) have been implicated as a molecular pathway involved in both these disease processes. In vitro data, animal work, and some human studies suggest that synthetic PPAR agonists in clinical use, such as thiazolidinediones, may not only regulate metabolic processes but may also limit inflammatory responses, including some involved in atherosclerosis.