Coordinated Regulation of PPAR Expression and Activity through Control of Chromatin Structure in Adipogenesis and Obesity

Abstract

The nuclear receptor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) is required for differentiation and function of mature adipocytes. Its expression is induced during adipogenesis where it plays a key role in establishing the transcriptome of terminally differentiated white fat cells. Here, we review findings indicating that PPARγexpression and activity are intricately regulated through control of chromatin structure. Hierarchical and combinatorial activation of transcription factors, noncoding RNAs, and chromatin remodelers allows for temporally controlled expression of PPARγand its target genes through sequential chromatin remodelling. In obesity, these regulatory pathways may be altered and lead to modified PPARγactivity.