Research Progress of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor in Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis

Non - alcoholic steatohepatitis represents a clinical - pathological syndrome. It is marked by the excessive buildup of fat within liver cells, which occurs due to diverse reasons and in the absence of a history of excessive alcohol intake. This condition leads to fatty degeneration and inflammation of liver cells, and may eventually progress to liver cirrhosis or even hepatocellular carcinoma. The incidence of non - alcoholic steatohepatitis has been on the rise annually and has emerged as a significant factor prompting liver transplantation. A large number of research findings indicate that the peroxisome proliferator - activated receptor (PPAR) is of great significance in the onset and development of non - alcoholic steatohepatitis. PPAR is a nuclear transcription factor that includes three subtypes: PPARα, PPARγ, and PPARβ. PPAR exerts multiple functions in the human body, including metabolic regulation, immune modulation, anti-inflammation, and therapy. Therefore, PPAR agonists can have therapeutic effects on non-alcoholic steatohepatitis by promoting hepatic lipid metabolism, reducing total cholesterol levels in the blood, and inhibiting inflammatory responses. Drugs such as fenofibrate and pioglitazone have been widely used in this regard. This article offers a comprehensive review of the research advancements regarding PPAR in non - alcoholic steatohepatitis. By doing so, it aims to lay a theoretical foundation for the exploration and development of novel medications designed to treat non - alcoholic steatohepatitis.