Evaluation of Food-derived Functional Ingredients According to Activation of PPAR and Suppression of COX-2 Expression

Abstract

The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are ligand-dependent transcription factors belonging to the nuclear receptor family. They are considered molecular targets for the prevention of lifestyle-related diseases and are involved in the control of cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 expression. COX-2, the rate-limiting enzyme in prostaglandin biosynthesis, plays a key role in inflammation and circulatory homeostasis, and its expression is partly controlled by PPAR. We have identified several natural chemicals, such as resveratrol, that activate PPARs and suppress COX-2 expression. In this review, we provide an evaluation of food-derived functional ingredients that target PPARs and COX-2.