Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors in HBV-Related Infection

Figure 3

HBx protein could influence liver steatosis through SREBP1 and PPARγ. Protein X of the HBV (HBx) increases the kinase AKT phosphorylation and inhibits PTEN expression that leads to increased expression and activation of SREBP1 in the liver. In another way HBx enhances C/EBPα that in turn induces PPARγ expression and activation. Both pathways lead to an increased expression of adipogenic and lipogenic genes, which finally could contribute to liver steatosis.