Is There a Biological Basis for Treatment of Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva with Rosiglitazone? Potential Benefits and Undesired Effects

Thiazolidinediones (TZDs), among which Rosiglitazone, are known agonists of the peroxisome-proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) commonly used for treatment of hyperglycemia. A recently published article describing a case report on a patient affected by Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP) treated with Rosiglitazone has prompted interest for careful analysis of the rational basis of such treatment. This article reviews the effects of PPARγ agonists in relationship with various pathogenic steps that occur during the course of FOP by reviewing the particularly rich literature on the effects of Rosiglitazone, to underscore their relevance to FOP and to consider possible adverse effects.