Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (
PPAR)-α, a member of a large
nuclear receptor superfamily, plays a major role in the regulation of lipid metabolism. Recently, PPARα activation has been shown to confer additional benefits on endothelial function, kidney function, and anti-
inflammation, suggesting that PPARα agonists may be good candidates for treating
acute renal failure. In clinical application,
PPAR-α activators, such as
hypolipidemic drugs in
fibric acid class, were proven to have
therapeutic effects on
metabolic syndrome and
cardiovascular disease. This paper focuses on signaling pathways,
ligand selectivity, and physio-pathological roles of PPARα in
kidney diseases and the therapeutic utility of PPARα modulators in the treatment of diabetes and
inflammation-induced nephropathy. Implication of new and more potent
PPAR-α activators could provide important insights into the overall benefits of activating
PPAR-α clinically for the treatment of
dyslipidemia and the prevention of diabetic or
inflammation-induced nephropathy in the future.