The PPARγ agonist pioglitazone prevents TGF-β induced renal fibrosis by repressing EGR-1 and STAT3.

Oral administration of PPARγ agonist pioglitazone significantly reduces TGF-β1-driven renal fibrosis, via the attenuation of EGR-1, STAT3 and AP-1. This implies that PPARγ agonists might be effective in the treatment of chronic kidney disease patients.