Pioglitazone modulates the proliferation and apoptosis of vascular smooth muscle cells via peroxisome proliferators-activated receptor-gamma

Background PPARγ is a member of the nuclear hormone receptor superfamily. It has been considered as a mediator regulating metabolism, anti-inflammation, and pro-proliferation in the Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells (VSMCs). Thiazolidinediones (TZDs), synthetic ligands of PPARγ, have anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects on VSMCs, which prevent the formation and progression of atherosclerosis and restenosis following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). However, the underlying mechanism remains elusive. This present study therefore aimed to investigate the signaling pathway by which pioglitazone, one of TZDs, inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis of VSMCs.