NCIt definition : An orally-active thiazolidinedione with antidiabetic properties and potential antineoplastic
activity. Pioglitazone activates peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma
(PPAR-gamma), a ligand-activated transcription factor, thereby inducing cell differentiation
and inhibiting cell growth and angiogenesis. This agent also modulates the transcription
of insulin-responsive genes, inhibits macrophage and monocyte activation, and stimulates
adipocyte differentiation.;
Alternative definition : NCI-GLOSS: A drug that is used to treat type 2 diabetes and is being studied in the
prevention of head and neck cancer. It may be able to stop leukoplakia (a condition
affecting the mouth) from developing into cancer. It is a type of thiazolidinedione.;