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Thiazolidinediones

Meaning

Thiazolidinediones (TZDs) are a specific class of synthetic pharmaceutical agents used clinically to treat Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus by primarily improving insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues, such as muscle and adipose tissue. These agents function as agonists for the Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor gamma (PPARγ), a nuclear receptor that regulates the transcription of genes involved in glucose and lipid metabolism. While effective in managing hyperglycemia, their use requires careful clinical monitoring due to potential side effects, including fluid retention and effects on bone health. They represent a targeted pharmacological approach to correcting a core metabolic component of hormonal dysfunction: insulin resistance.